Thanksgiving is a time for reflection. We gather around tables with family and friends, share meals that represent abundance, and take stock of what we’re grateful for. But this Thanksgiving, let’s be candid—our gratitude might feel a little complicated.
The past year has been full of challenges and uncertainties. From the intense debates and division around this latest election to the economic struggles that many families still face, it’s easy to feel weighed down. Our country seems more polarized than ever, and the chaos in politics and culture can make it feel like everything is teetering on the brink. Yet, as leaders, we’re called to rise above the noise. And that begins with gratitude.
Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
This is the hard part for me, so let’s read it again. Which circumstances? When Trump wins? Nope. When I find a sick meme that owns the libs? Not just then, but that is cool. No, it says ALL circumstances. Not just when things are easy. In all circumstances. Gratitude doesn’t depend on our situation—it’s rooted in the unchanging goodness of God.
But how does this translate to leadership? How do we lead with authority and gratitude, especially when the world feels uncertain? And when we’re in the minority?
First, let’s redefine authority. Biblical authority isn’t about power trips or domination. It’s the authority Jesus modeled: rooted in humility, anchored in truth, and guided by a deep desire to serve others. In this post-election season, as we gather around Thanksgiving tables with people who may not agree with our views, we have a choice. We can argue and assert our opinions, or we can lead by example—speaking with grace and authority that comes from a grateful heart. And changing the subject helps, too.
Gratitude does something powerful to our leadership. It softens our hearts without compromising our convictions. It helps us see God’s blessings, even in the chaos, and reminds us to lead from a place of hope instead of frustration. When we lead with gratitude, we also model contentment and faith for those who are looking up to us. And let’s be real: the people we lead—whether it’s our families, our teams, or our communities—need to see that hope is still alive.
This Thanksgiving week, consider the people who sacrificed to make this country what it is. Think of our founding fathers, the brave men and women who laid down their lives for our freedoms, and the everyday Americans who keep this nation running strong. We stand on the shoulders of giants, and while things may feel uncertain now, we have a God who isn’t surprised by any of it.
Let’s not lose sight of that. Let’s give thanks, not only for the blessings we can see but also for the trials that refine us and the promises that give us hope. If you’re in a leadership role, I challenge you to join me in making gratitude our foundation this week. Let it fuel our words and actions. As we sit down to give thanks, ask God to renew our authority—not with arrogance, but with a deep sense of purpose and humility.
And remember: real authority isn’t given by people; it’s ordained by God. When we lead with gratitude and faith, we make a difference that goes beyond political wins or losses. We become leaders who stand firm, no matter how strong the cultural winds blow.
Let’s be grateful. And let’s be bold!
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