Be Thankful for Family and Friends

Genuine relationships are hard to come by in today’s world. No matter how “social” social media proclaims to be, there is still many who feel alone and isolated. That is why, being thankful for family and friends who are by our side and care for us, is something to be very grateful for today.  

True Friendship

God designed us for community, not isolation. “Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their efforts. For if either falls, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to lift him up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, CSB). A friend who answers your 2 a.m. call, who tells you the truth when everyone else stays silent, who celebrates your wins without jealousy so true friendship. Thank kind of friendship is something to thank God for. 

A great example of true friendship in the Bible is found in 1 Samuel. Jonathan and David’s friendship shows us what that looks like. “After David had finished speaking with Saul, Jonathan committed himself to David, and loved him as much as he loved himself” (1 Samuel 18:1, CSB). Real friends aren’t just there for the highlight reel. They’re covenant keepers in the valleys.

Family is a Foundation

Family is a gift, and every family has unique strengths and moments to treasure. While not all families look the same or feel perfect, they each hold special blessings. And in every season, there is always something to be grateful for. “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring, a reward” (Psalm 127:3, CSB). The family members who shaped you, supported you, or even challenged you to grow—they’re part of God’s refining work in your life.

Even if you feel like you don’t have a family to walk alongside of you, the good news is that  God lovingly expands our understanding of family. He surrounds us not only with those we were born into, but also with a spiritual family—brothers and sisters in Christ who walk with us, support us, and remind us that we belong. In Psalm 68:6, the Psalmist says, “God provides homes for those who are deserted. He leads out the prisoners to prosperity.”  

Gratitude That Shows

Paul modeled gratitude for family and friends, as well. In Philippians 1:3-4 he says, “I thank my God every time I remember you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer.” He didn’t just feel thankful for his relationships—he expressed it. Regularly. Specifically.

Conclusion

When’s the last time you told your family and friends what they mean to you and how much you are thankful for them? This is not some vague or generic “appreciate you” way, but with specific gratitude for specific moments when they showed up?

Today, thank God for the people He’s placed in your life. Then thank them. Life is short, and the people who walk it with us are irreplaceable gifts from a God who knows we weren’t meant to journey alone.