As parents, we each go through tough seasons with our children. But do we take time to thank God for those seasons when they are done? It’s a great time of the year to do just that. 

If you’re reading this as a young parent, please read these praises and thanks as hope that you, too, will get through these tough seasons!

Thank You, God, for sleepless nights filled with cuddling and bonding.

Thank You, God, for providing all the diapers we needed no matter how full and stinky they got.

Thank You, God, for band-aids and kisses on little scraped knees from outdoor adventures.

Thank You, God, for popsicles that soothed croop-y coughs and warm tea and honey that coated sore throats.

Thank You, God, for sick days filled with movies and nests on the couch and reading together.

Thank You, God, for the responsibility to discipline our children, teaching them self-control, honor, and consideration, even when the discipline took days and weeks to sink in.

Thank You, God, for classmates who were unkind, giving my children opportunities to show your loving-kindness no matter how they felt.

Thank You, God, for broken bones and good doctors to reset them, teaching my children about making wise choices and taking care of their bodies.

Thank You, God, for snow days that gave us the opportunity to drink more hot chocolate, eat grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup. Thank You for the hard work-ethic and expectation of thoroughness that came from shoveling the driveway together on those days.

Thank You, God, for family to rely on You and family who is still seeking, showing our children their deep need for you in their lives and relationships.

There are so many things to be thankful for but thanking God for the tough things takes some inner strength that makes us more like Him. Go on and try it. Thank Him for whatever hard thing you’re struggling with right now. He’s listening!

 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

What are some hard things in this season you can thank God for instead of complaining about?