Thanksgiving is Testimony
Written by Sherri Bergmann, with Contributions from Kaley Morgan
As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us prepare for good food, family, and moments of reflection. But what if we took it a step further this year? What if Thanksgiving became more than giving thanks — what if it became testimony?
As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us prepare for good food, family, and moments of reflection. But what if we took it a step further this year? What if Thanksgiving became more than giving thanks — what if it became testimony?
Invite God to the Table
At the Thanksgiving dinner table, take the essence of the gathering up a notch by not just giving thanks — but by adding why. Invite God to the table. Thanksgiving is more than getting together with loved ones; it’s about honoring the God from whom all blessings flow.
Many of us go around the table and share what we’re thankful for. But in Scripture, giving thanks isn’t just listing blessings — it’s telling the story of God’s goodness in our lives.
It’s a special opportunity to uplift others as we lift God up. With all the chaos in the world — wars and rumors of wars, job losses, the economy, and price increases — it can be easy for many to come to the table feeling despair.
But with the intentional mission of giving thanks and explaining why, despair can turn to inner joy before the meal is over. Guests can leave the table in reflection, encouraged, and with perspectives changed.
Many of us go around the table and share what we’re thankful for. But in Scripture, giving thanks isn’t just listing blessings — it’s telling the story of God’s goodness in our lives.
It’s a special opportunity to uplift others as we lift God up. With all the chaos in the world — wars and rumors of wars, job losses, the economy, and price increases — it can be easy for many to come to the table feeling despair.
But with the intentional mission of giving thanks and explaining why, despair can turn to inner joy before the meal is over. Guests can leave the table in reflection, encouraged, and with perspectives changed.
True Thanksgiving Is Testimony
True thanksgiving is more than gratitude — it’s testimony. When we name what God has done, we not only thank Him but also bear witness to His faithfulness. Our gratitude becomes encouragement for others and a way of passing down the story of God’s goodness.
I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.
— Psalm 9:1
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story.
— Psalm 107:1–2
Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind. Let them sacrifice thank offerings and tell of his works with songs of joy.
— Psalm 107:21–22
Ways to Encourage Others About His Goodness
- Share one story of God’s goodness at your Thanksgiving table — big or small.
- Invite kids or teens to share how they’ve seen God answer a prayer.
- Write down answered prayers from this year and read them aloud before the meal. When you pray, watch for His answers and tell of His mighty response.
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.
— Colossians 4:2
- Let your compassionate actions serve as a testament to His power and goodness.
- If the year has been hard, testify to God’s character — His love, presence, and peace — even if circumstances haven’t been easy.
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
— 1 Thessalonians 5:18
When we tell others what He has done for us, we give God the glory. When we do His will, we are blessed — and others are blessed too. Our words and acts of love can lead others to thank God.
You will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And through us, your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
— 2 Corinthians 9:11
Our generosity to help another, especially in times of need, can cause someone else to give thanks to God. Our prayers to Him are like incense. Psalm 141:2 and Revelation 8:3–4 describe prayers that ascend to God as a pleasing fragrance that rises to Him.
Pass It Down
Our stories of His goodness — shared at the Thanksgiving table and beyond — can cause others to reflect, give glory to Him, and apply His truth in their lives. Thanksgiving is more than just giving thanks — it’s telling why.
The telling of His mighty deeds is meant to be celebrated and passed down through generations, spoken of in awe to proclaim the greatness and glory of God.
The telling of His mighty deeds is meant to be celebrated and passed down through generations, spoken of in awe to proclaim the greatness and glory of God.
Because of the proof of this ministry, they will glorify God for your obedience to the gospel of Christ and for your sincere generosity toward them and toward all others.
— 2 Corinthians 9:13
One generation shall praise Your works to another, and shall declare Your mighty acts.
— Psalm 145:4
Thanksgiving can be more than just thanking God at the table — we can elevate it by telling others why. You never know who at the table will take your testimony to heart.
I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.
— Psalm 9:1
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