Since most of our readers are in the U.S., many of you will be celebrating Thanksgiving this week. It’s a good time to reflect on the importance of giving thanks, especially as we lead businesses for God’s glory.

One powerful example of gratitude comes from Corrie and Betsie ten Boom, two Dutch sisters imprisoned during World War II for hiding Jews. After arriving at a new concentration camp, they found their overcrowded barracks infested with fleas. Corrie wondered how they could endure such a place, but Betsie reminded her of the morning’s Scripture reading: “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). Betsie insisted they give thanks for everything, even the fleas. Though skeptical, Corrie joined in.

Over time, the sisters realized the fleas kept guards out of their barracks, allowing them to freely read and teach Scripture, bringing hope to fellow prisoners. What seemed unbearable turned out to be a blessing from God, demonstrating His providence even in suffering.

The ten Boom sisters’ remarkable faith was rooted in their father’s missional enterprise. Casper ten Boom’s watch shop in Haarlem was more than a business—it was a place of discipleship and community impact. While lovingly repairing watches, he discipled his children and others in the town. His shop became a beacon of hope, especially when he risked everything to hide persecuted Jews.

As leaders of missional enterprises, we, too, can embrace thankfulness, trusting that God can work through every situation for His glory. Let’s take time this Thanksgiving to thank God for both the blessings and challenges in our work, knowing He is faithful to use them for His purposes.

Finally, we want to express thanks to all of you for joining together in the adventure of glorifying God through missional enterprise. May you be richly blessed and may God fill you with a heart of gratitude.

Verse(s) of the Week:

Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. Colossians 2:6-7 (ESV)

As we walk in Christ Jesus the Lord this week, may God enable us to abound in thanksgiving.