A Family Prayer of Thanksgiving

TONIGHT’S SCRIPTURE “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”— Joshua 24:15 EVENING MEDITATION The Fall season often brings a whirlwind of activity — school events, work deadlines, family gatherings, and holiday preparations. As our nightly prayer and devotional remind us, in all the hustle, it’s easy to lose sight of what this season is truly about: gratitude and togetherness. Amanda Idleman reminds us that Thanksgiving isn’t about perfectly orchestrated meals or the endless to-do lists that come with the holidays. It’s about cultivating a spirit of thankfulness — both individually and as a family — by being present with the people we love. As parents, spouses, or caregivers, we can easily get caught up in the demands of the season, rushing from one activity to the next. But Joshua 24:15 offers us a grounding truth: “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Serving the Lord together as a family begins with a posture of gratitude — slowing down to notice His blessings, to love each other well, and to honor Him in the small, simple moments of our days. Amanda encourages us to make this season about connection, not consumption. Gratitude grows in the quiet moments: a shared family dinner, laughter during a game night, or heartfelt words of encouragement. These are the moments that make memories and reflect God’s love within our homes. This fall, simplify your schedule and open your heart. Let your traditions and gatherings flow from a place of thankfulness and intentional love. When we make space for gratitude, we create a home where joy and peace can truly dwell. MAIN TAKEAWAYS Gratitude begins at home — with simple, intentional moments of connection. Serving God as a family means prioritizing love and togetherness over busyness. The holidays should be a time of being present, not being overwhelmed. Gratitude expressed through service, kindness, and encouragement deepens family bonds. A thankful home reflects the heart of God. SCRIPTURE REFERENCES Joshua 24:15 Colossians 3:17 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Psalm 100:4 YOUR EVENING PRAYER God,Help me and my family to practice gratitude this fall. Guard our hearts from becoming over-scheduled or overwhelmed. Let our celebrations and traditions be rooted in love and not in busyness. Teach us to slow down, to notice Your blessings, and to enjoy the gift of being together. May our home reflect Your peace and presence in every moment, and may everything we do bring glory to You.In Jesus’ name, Amen. THREE THINGS TO MEDITATE UPON How can you guard your heart from burnout this season?Create intentional boundaries to protect your peace and joy. In what ways can your family connect more deeply?Think of simple traditions that strengthen gratitude and love. What do you love most about this season?Take time to slow down and savor those blessings together. CALL TO ACTION Subscribe to Your Nightly Prayer for daily reflections that nurture your faith and your family life. Visit LifeAudio.com for more podcasts and devotionals centered on faith, gratitude, and Christian living. Share this prayer with a friend or family member — invite them to join you in cultivating a spirit of thanksgiving this season. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.