Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday filled with delicious food and family gatherings—it’s a time to reflect on God’s blessings and express gratitude. For married couples, this season offers a unique opportunity to strengthen your bond by focusing on thankfulness together. James 1:17 reminds us, “Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father….”
When we were growing up, both of our families had Thanksgiving traditions. For Heidi’s family they would share around the table one thing they each were thankful for. Brad’s family sang hymns and discussed ways God had blessed them as well.
How do you and your spouse celebrate Thanksgiving? How do you honor God and each other as you reflect on the ways God has blessed you? Here are ten ways you and your spouse can make Thanksgiving a more meaningful, God-centered holiday:
1. Read the story of the 10 lepers found in Luke 17:11-19.
Talk about how the one man was different from the other nine. What did he do when he was healed? He returned and “praised God in a loud voice.” What has God done for you lately that you can thank him for? Take time to praise Him.
2. Tell your spouse three things you appreciate about them.
Focus on their heart, spiritual life, and character. Perhaps emphasize qualities like faithfulness, hard work, kindness, generosity, or their dedication to studying God’s Word or prayer.
3. Think of someone in need and anonymously bless them.
Send them flowers or a gift card through the mail or online. Have fun together as you imagine how the gift was received!
4. Serve at a food pantry or homeless shelter.
Helping others less fortunate than ourselves increases our thanksgiving quotient.
5. On a whiteboard, have each family member write one thing for which they’re grateful.
Then read the list together and thank God for his blessings. Or have each family member write on a piece of paper what they’re thankful for and place it in a jar. Then guess who said it. Make this a fun family game.
6. Talk about “God sightings.”
At your dinner table for several nights leading up to Thanksgiving, have a different person share how they have seen God at work lately.
7. Invite someone for dinner.
Think of someone who is alone for Thanksgiving and invite them to join you and your family as you celebrate.
8. Buy your spouse a Thanksgiving card and small gift.
Surprise them with it on Thanksgiving morning and let them know how thankful you are for them and for your marriage.
9. Build a family memory.
Play games, go for a walk, or watch a favorite movie together.
10. Who had/has a positive impact on your marriage?
Write them a note saying how they were/are a godly influence and example for your marriage. This could be a pastor, counselor, relative, mentor, friend, co-worker, small group leader, etc.
Be intentional in how you cultivate a spirit of thanksgiving in your marriage and home. As you do, you’ll enter Thanksgiving Day with greater gratitude to God as you build your marriage.