October is Pastor Appreciation Month, and honestly, I never expect anything. I don’t feel like I should. My church family already poured out so much love and support during my recovery through prayers, meals, and messages of encouragement that I felt completely cared for already.
But God has a beautiful way of surprising us.
All of a sudden, during service, the kids’ church came in each child carrying a card. One by one, they began handing them to us. Card after card, little hands holding big hearts. And then they led the prayers over us. I was completely overwhelmed, not just by the creativity in their cards but by the purity and power in their prayers. It was such a humbling, joy-filled moment.
Later, more cards came in, along with gift cards. And I think word got out that I love steak because we received four gift cards to Texas Roadhouse! Yes, I love their steaks, and yes, I laughed at how God knows the desires of our hearts—even in the smallest ways.
This day was such a sweet reminder that God gives good gifts to His children. Sometimes those gifts come wrapped in laughter, kindness, or a child’s handwritten note. (One card had one word written on it... poop! Yes you read that right but it made us laugh and knowing who wrote it made it more funny.) Sometimes they come in the form of a meal, a prayer, or an unexpected blessing.
Scripture:
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” — James 1:17
God’s goodness doesn’t change with our circumstances. Even when we’re healing, waiting, or feeling weary, He still sends reminders of His love. He uses others to show us that we’re seen, valued, and loved by Him.
Lesson:
I was reminded that gratitude grows joy. When we take time to see every card, every prayer, and every kind word as a gift from the Father, our hearts shift from “Why me?” to “Thank You, Lord.” Healing isn’t just physical—it’s spiritual too. Gratitude strengthens the soul and opens our eyes to how present God really is in every season.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for surrounding us with people who reflect Your love so well. Thank You for every person who prays, gives, or speaks encouragement. Help us to notice Your blessings, both big and small, and to never take Your goodness for granted. May we also be generous in blessing others, just as You so faithfully bless us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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