Wow. The past week has been crazy. Social media has been overflowing with politics, as I’m sure everyone has witnessed on their timelines and newsfeeds. So, I am going provide you with the opportunity to take a break from politics, just for a moment, in order to clear your mind of whatever you may be feeling towards the election, media, and news, and replace it with something much more positive. (You’re welcome.)

November is a time to be thankful. With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, it’s not all about the turkey and dressing, it’s about being grateful for all of the many blessings in your life.

Take a moment to think about all you have to be thankful for.

Be thankful for the little things in life.

Maybe you are blessed each day with food, fresh water, a cozy bed, a dependable car, a cell phone, a laptop, and the opportunity to go to school or work. Don't take these things for granted.

“We pray for the big things and forget to give thanks for the ordinary, small (and yet really not small) gifts.” ― Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Be thankful that you have freedom.

Generations of family, friends, and strangers have fought for this country. You are privileged to have the freedom of speech and religion; you are privileged to have the right to vote. Be thankful that you live in a democracy and be thankful for all of the people who have sacrificed their lives so that you could have these privileges.

“History has taught us over and over again that freedom is not free. When push comes to shove, the ultimate protectors of freedom and liberty are the brave men and women in our armed forces. Throughout our history, they've answered the call in bravery and sacrifice.” --Tim Pawlenty

Be thankful that you have people who love you.

Family and friends will always be there for you no matter what. They will love you and care for you. They are concerned about you and your wellbeing. They support you and enjoy your company. Never take these people for granted.

“We must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.” ―John F. Kennedy

Above all, be thankful that you have a God who loves you, a God who blesses you, a God who sent His son to die for you.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” --John 3:16

You are a sinner and you deserve death, but God, in all His love and grace, sent His son to die for you…me…all of us, so that we can have eternal life in Heaven as long as we believe in Him. Wow. We definitely don’t deserve it, but He did it anyway because He loves us. That in itself is more than enough to be thankful for.

Finally, I want to leave you with some advice from the Lord himself.

Be kind to one another (even if you don’t share the same political views).

Ephesians 5:4, “Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.”

Don’t be afraid. God is watching over you always.

Psalm 56:3, “For those who are living in fear, When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.”

You should have peace, because God has a plan.

Philippians 4:5-7, “The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

So, before leaving this page, remember that no matter what is going on in your life, in this country, and in this world, you have a lot to be thankful for. Trust in the Lord.