This year has been a very trying year.  Ministry in this hostile world does present its challenges. Jim and I and our family have fought some uphill battles that definitely made us stronger.  But, along with the struggles, we have had some of the most joyful times of our lives!

Our family is ever-expanding, and just this year, we have been blessed with new life in our amazing nephew, Graham, who couldn’t be more special!  We are also anxiously awaiting our new granddaughter, Olivia, who is due to make her grand appearance in December.  Her proud parents, Little Lori and Jasper, are also understandably excited!

Along with all of my amazing children, and others in my wonderful family, I especially give thanks this year for my Mom, Char.  My mother is my rock.  She has been there throughout my life to provide support, counsel, and sometimes, just a listening ear.  As the years go by, she becomes even more of a treasure.

And I thank God for Jim.  Life with Jim is truly “More Than I Could Ever Ask.”  As we dealt with the challenges of getting “Lori’s House” built and ready to save babies, Jim’s resolve never wavered.  While most men would have given up and thrown in the towel, I’m thankful that Jim didn’t give up on “Lori’s House.”

Most of all, I am thankful to God for His faithfulness throughout the generations.

Thankfulness is not just a “nice thing.”  It’s a necessary thing.  Thankfulness to God for His love, care for us, and His provision for our salvation is a major theme throughout both Old and New Testaments.

I encourage you to write down the things you are thankful for and read them a few more times this week.

Please add any other of your favorite inspirational quotes on thankfulness to the comments below so this may be a better resource for those who read it.

Psalm 69:30

I will praise the name of God with song, And shall magnify Him with thanksgiving.

Psalm 70:4

Let all who seek Thee rejoice and be glad in Thee; And let those who love Thy salvation say continually, “Let God be magnified.”

Colossians 3:15

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Colossians 4:2

Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving;