November turns our attention to thanksgiving. However, being thankful is not limited to a Thursday when Americans gather for turkey, football, and an extra slice of pumpkin pie. Regarding gratitude, the Bible says to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

These Houston's First members share how this thankful motivation has played out in their lives.

"I am thankful for how The Porch for young adults radically impacted my faith and moved me from being a cultural Christian to living a life fully surrendered to Christ. That’s why I serve on The Porch’s “Welcome Mat” team now on Tuesday nights at The Loop Campus, helping other young adults encounter, experience, and express the compelling love of Jesus Christ.”

— Heather Connolly

"In our twenties, we experienced several job losses but God always provided for us. Later in our marriage, we went to Vietnam on our rst mission trip and the Lord changed us as a result. We came home and decided to start a mission fund, putting aside money speci cally so we could support missions opportunities. We’re grateful for God’s faithfulness and provision in our lives, and we look forward each year to discovering where He’ll lead us to provide nancially for kingdom-building endeavors.”

— Lonnie & Connie Hamilton

“Back when I was a teenager, my teachers in the student ministry lived out their faith seven days a week. They truly cared about me and took time to speak into my life outside of Sunday mornings and Wednesday night programming. I’m grateful for the example they set for me as a young believer and for all that I learned from them. That’s one reason why I serve in The HUB Student Ministry today. I want the Lord to use me in the same way.”

— Allen O'Neal

What About You?

Share your story on social media with the hashtag #ThankfulMotivation or tell us on the Houston’s First Baptist Church app or through this form: I'm Thankful