Cultivating Gratitude and Contentment in Ministry: A Thanksgiving Reflection

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As we approach Thanksgiving, a time dedicated to reflection, gratitude, and family, it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of ministry or to feel overlooked for the countless hours and sacrifices you’ve made. While it’s natural to desire appreciation, it’s also essential to pause and reflect on the deeper callings and blessings of our work in ministry.

In this week’s Beyond the Youth Room podcast, Keith Seymour and Ryne remind us of the importance of giving thanks in all circumstances, even in a role that often feels thankless. Drawing from Luke 17:11-19, the story of the ten lepers offers a poignant reminder: only one out of ten returned to thank Jesus after being healed. Even Christ Himself wasn’t always thanked for His ministry, yet He served faithfully, modeling for us the importance of focusing on the eternal rather than seeking constant affirmation.

Finding Contentment in Every Season

This Thanksgiving, the theme of contentment is front and center. As Ryne shares, we can become consumed by desires for "more"—a larger youth group, a bigger budget, or more visible results in ministry. Yet, Ecclesiastes 6:9 urges us:

“Enjoy what you have rather than desiring what you don’t have. Just dreaming about nice things is meaningless, like chasing the wind” (NLT).

Paul echoes this sentiment in Philippians 4:11-13, sharing that he had learned to be content in all circumstances, whether in plenty or in want, because his strength came from Christ. Contentment isn’t about our circumstances; it’s about trusting God’s plan and provision, even in seasons of struggle or uncertainty.

Gratitude for the Giver, Not Just the Gifts

It’s easy to focus on what God can do for us rather than who He is. Ryne illustrates this beautifully with the story of a pastor whose daughter began valuing the gifts he brought home more than his presence. Similarly, in ministry, we can get caught up in the “results” and lose sight of the true gift: our relationship with God and the opportunity to serve Him.

Instead, let’s redirect our hearts toward the Giver. As 1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us, we’re called to give thanks in all circumstances, not just when things go well. Even the trials in ministry—challenging students, critical parents, financial constraints—are opportunities to grow in faith and dependence on Christ.

Perspective from Missionaries

Keith highlights the wisdom of missionary Gladys Aylward, who embraced her trials, saying:

“These are my people. God has given them to me, and I will live or die for Him and His glory.”

Her perspective reminds us that the valleys we face are often where the most growth happens. Trees grow tall in fertile valleys, not on barren mountaintops. So, if you’re in a tough season, take heart: God is cultivating something in you and through you.

A Call to Reflect This Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving, take time to reflect on these questions:

• Am I content in my current season of ministry, whether on the mountaintop or in the valley?
• Do I focus more on the gifts or the Giver?
• How can I cultivate gratitude, even for the challenges I face?

Gratitude and contentment aren’t just attitudes; they’re acts of worship. As you celebrate this season, remember that your ministry matters. Even if only 10% of those you serve express their thanks, you’re in good company—Jesus knows what that feels like.

May we all seek to focus on the eternal, remain faithful in the work God has entrusted to us, and find joy in serving Him. This Thanksgiving, let’s fix our eyes on the Giver of all good gifts and rejoice in His enduring love and faithfulness.

Happy Thanksgiving!