Ready to look back?

Before we begin looking ahead to 2026, what if we took a moment to look back at God’s goodness in 2025?

I believe that God has been incredibly faithful to all of us. In fact, if you are alive, breathing, and thriving today, it’s because of God’s incredible faithfulness every day of the past year. And that, my friends, is a reason to be grateful!

I’m grateful for so many blessings that God has poured out in my life. I know I don’t deserve any of them, but it’s a testimony to how good God is.

I’m thankful for an amazing wife who loves me as I am but also wants me to grow and be transformed by Jesus. I’m thankful for two awesome kids, two incredible in-law kids, and two—going on three—amazing baby granddaughters. I am so unbelievably blessed!

I’m also grateful for a church that grows in the ways of Jesus and regularly impacts their community. I’m thankful for good food, a warm house, and the opportunity to bless other people.

My friend, as we focus on gratitude, know this: gratitude shifts your focus from what’s missing to what has already been given.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NIV)

That means, if you’re in a season of blessing right now—you should thank God. If you’re in a season of challenge—you should thank God. If you’re in a season of deep, deep testing—you should thank God. Because He’s a part of every circumstance.

And when we give thanks back to Him, God transforms our perspective, and we are changed. A grateful heart opens the door to joy, even when we’re in a season of uncertainty.

So, even if it’s small, say thanks to God for all the things He has blessed you with today. You will never be disappointed by what happens in your heart.

Never forget, my friend—you are a miracle.