The turkey might still be thawing, the pies may or may not be homemade, and your kids might not be feeling especially thankful—but this Thanksgiving, the Raising Godly Girls Podcast invites you to look beyond the checklist and rediscover the heart of gratitude. Join Rachael Culpepper , Executive Director of American Heritage Girls, and Melissa Bearden for a thoughtful and faith-filled conversation about what it means to raise daughters who choose gratitude even when it doesn't come naturally. With honest reflections, Biblical insight, and a few laughs along the way, Rachael and Melissa unpack how gratitude is not just a seasonal feeling— it's a spiritual discipline rooted in nearness to God. Drawing from James 4:8 and Luke 14 , they remind moms that gratitude grows when we draw near to the Lord and accept His invitation to the table of thanksgiving. From small car-ride conversations to setting the Thanksgiving table together, you'll learn simple, tangible ways to help your daughter practice gratitude that lasts longer than the leftovers. Plus, hear from AHG Founder & Executive Director Emeritus Patti Garibay in a special Raising Godly Girls Minute — a timely reminder to turn expectations into invitations, and holiday stress into holy celebration. Whether you're hosting family or sneaking an extra slice of pie in peace, this episode will encourage you to keep "the first things first" and model what it means to live thankful , even when you don't feel like it. Three Things to Remember : Gratitude is a choice, not a feeling. Choosing thankfulness ( even in difficult seasons !) draws your heart closer to God. Extend intentional invitations. Invite your daughter into moments of gratitude through small acts of connection and love. Model resilient thanksgiving. Let your own steady gratitude remind her that joy isn't dependent on circumstances, but on Christ's unchanging goodness. Scripture Reference d in This Episode : James 4:8 – "Come near to God and He will come near to you." Luke 14:15–24 – The Parable of the Great Banquet: God's open invitation to come and celebrate at His table. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 – "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Psalm 100:4 – "Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise." Explore more resources to raise girls rooted in Christ at raisinggodlygirls.com . To find or start an American Heritage Girls Troop in your area, visit americanheritagegirls.org .
