Thanksgiving is more than a holiday on the calendar — it is an invitation to pause, reflect, and train the mind to see God’s goodness in every season. Philippians 4:8 gives us a clear path for this kind of thinking: dwell on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. These prompts are designed to guide your thoughts through each of these qualities, helping you anchor your gratitude in God’s truth and carry it well beyond the holiday.
True
Write about one truth from God’s Word that steadies you when life feels uncertain.
Recall a moment this year when God proved His promises true in your life.
What truth about God’s character do you most want to hold onto as the year ends?
Honorable
Describe a person or situation this year that reflected honor and integrity.
How can you personally walk in a way that is honorable before God and others?
What does it look like to honor God with your thoughts during this holiday season?
Right
Think of a decision you made recently that aligned with God’s Word — how did it bring peace or clarity?
Where is God inviting you to choose what is right, even when it is hard?
Write a prayer asking God to strengthen your heart to choose righteousness over convenience.
Pure
Recall a time you experienced God’s forgiveness this year. How did it change you?
What is one area of your thought life that you want God to purify?
List three pure and life-giving thoughts you want to dwell on this Thanksgiving.
Lovely
Write about a moment of beauty you noticed recently — in nature, people, or creation.
How can you bring loveliness into your home, relationships, or conversations this season?
What is one lovely memory from this year that you want to thank God for today?
Admirable
Who in your life has shown consistent faithfulness to God? Write about the impact they have had on you.
How can you live in a way that others would see as admirable because it reflects Christ?
Describe a time this year when someone else’s example inspired you to keep going.
Excellent
Think about a time you witnessed God’s excellence in creation, provision, or protection — write it out in detail.
What would it look like for you to pursue excellence in one specific area of your life in the coming months?
List three ways you have seen God’s excellent work in your life this year.
Praiseworthy
Write a list of 10 specific reasons you can praise God today.
Think of a trial you faced this year — what praiseworthy fruit came out of it?
How can you speak about God’s goodness to others during this Thanksgiving season?