Although November is about giving thanks, we also begin navigating the holidays – and having to remember the people, places, and stories that are difficult or wounding.

God knows your longings and the anxieties you’ve put to the side. But, when the holidays come – and everything beautiful and filtered (image crafted) starts getting posted into our social media feeds and commercials and music starts playing – your heart becomes tender again. You feel deeply and your hidden hopes and memories return.

As you wonder how thanksgiving can touch your heart, look down. See the loving hand of Jesus gently fold your hand into His. Turn to look into His gentle gaze upon you and His complete understanding for all you’ve whispered into the night.

Jesus knows how you feel. He loves you. Jesus tenderly whispers, I will be with you. I won’t leave you. You’re mine.

Let them give thanks to the Lord
for his faithful love…
For he has satisfied the thirsty
and filled the hungry with good things.” Ps. 107:9

Maybe it’s hard to hear God’s whispers of love for you – because the world is so noisy, where everything seems to celebrate perfect stories, perfect endings, and perfect beauty.

But, I’m here to say, Life doesn’t have to be perfect, in order for you to be perfectly loved. You have something beautiful that far surpasses the image of perfection. You and I can celebrate the joy of being God’s beloved. 

Here are Five Breath Prayers to spark the joy of Thanksgiving in your soul, inspired by my book to find God’s Whispers of Rest.

PRAYER #1
Help me, God.
Thank you for never letting me go.

“Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you.
Show me where to walk, for I give myself to You.” Psalm 143:8

Whatever’s happening this week, hold onto God’s hand. He’s not letting go of you. He’s walking into every situation you’re facing, with you.

Gather your courage and ask for the strength to do what you must do, just for this one next step. Trust He will provide what comes next. Jesus will not abandon the work of His hands — He is not letting go of you. No way, no how. You are His beloved.

PRAYER #2
Hold onto me, Jesus.
Thank you for the gentle ways you love me.

“For great is your steadfast love toward me…” Psalm 86:13
“Your right hand supported me and your gentleness makes me great.
You gave a wide path for my steps under me, and my feet did not slipped.”
Psalm 18:35-36 

We may not know the way but the God who loves you not only knows the way – He intimately knows your way.

No matter what, He will lead you all the way.

PRAYER #3
Give me…

(to be continued below)