The Grateful Table: Finding Thankfulness While Having An Empty Chair

Being grateful in the midst of loss can be hard. There sits the empty chair. You look at the empty chair. You think about the empty chair. You wonder if there was something different that you could have done or said to change that empty chair. You think about how things should be instead of how they truly are, Creating a grateful table seems unobtainable.

The loss of our child this year has been hard. As we approach the holiday season, we know that we must to cling to God.

His Word says, in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, to "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Good circumstances make it easy to be thankful. but that is not what God says to do. Even in bad circumstances, we give Him thanks. Because He is God. Because He is worthy. Because we trust Him. We trust Him with the empty chair.

So what are some things that we can do to help us create a grateful table for everyone during these holidays?

• T: Talk it out. Find someone trustworthy who will just listen to you and allow you to voice your hurt and concerns during this season. I have been going through grief counseling all year, This helped me discuss the empty chair with family before the holiday seasons approached

• A: Allow yourself to grieve. It's okay if you are struggling with the holidays. You might feel angry or sad....all of the feels about that empty chair. It's okay.

• B: Be present. There are other friends and family and parts of our lives that are amazing. Live in those moments and be thankful to God for the blessings.

• L: Let your light shine. A day of thanksgiving and Christmas are beautiful times to share the joy and peace of God. Show others your level of trust in the God who came to earth to save our souls.

• E: Entertain the idea of different. There are new traditions that you can make and there are special ways to honor your loved one.

"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness" (Colossians 2:6-7).

Let's talk about a different table...

My new book, Gather At the Table, is a 30 day devotional written for women. Each day takes you to a different table that has a unique theme. There is a Scripture, a thought, a reflection question, prayer, and a challenge. There is also a "before you get up from this table" and room for notes. It would also make a great gift to someone in your life!

Find it on Amazon at this link: https://a.co/d/9JaorA5

In Closing

Are you struggling from loss, sickness, pain, or difficult life circumstances this season as you prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas? You are not alone. If you need someone to talk to, I am available to provide free pastoral care online. This consists of: pastoral counsel, mental health coaching, prayer, and tools. Contact me: https://www.steadycourseministries.com/contact