Thankful Anyway. How Christian Autism Moms Can Give Thanks This November.

As November settles in, the world around us shifts into a season of gratitude. Leaves fall, homes fill with warmth and the scent of spices, and holiday invitations begin to pour in. For many, this is a time of celebration and togetherness. But for others, especially families raising autistic or medically complex children, this season can feel different.

It can bring uncertainty, overwhelm, and a mix of emotions—wanting to make memories while also protecting your child’s peace. The noise, the crowds, the changes in routine all carry weight. Yet even here, God whispers:

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Notice that it doesn’t say for all circumstances, but in them. Gratitude doesn’t deny what’s hard; it invites God into it.

This month, as you move through shifting schedules, family expectations, or quiet moments of worry, pause and breathe these truths over yourself:

Grounding Phrases for When Autism Moms Can Give Thanks:

• God, I can thank You even here.
• I am not behind; I am exactly where You’ve called me to be.
• You are with me in this moment, steadying me, guiding me, strengthening me.
• Peace is possible, even when plans change.
• You understand my child more deeply than anyone else ever could.

Let these words draw you back to the One who holds every detail, even the ones that didn’t go according to plan.

Maybe this year, you’ll find that the best choice for your family is to sit out a gathering that feels too overwhelming. Or perhaps God will lead you to ask for accommodations so your child can join in safely and joyfully. Neither path is failure; both can be obedience.

If you’re unsure what to do, go to God in prayer and ask,
“Lord, what would bring the most peace and connection to our home this season?”
He will answer—sometimes through a gentle calm, sometimes through a closed door, sometimes through an unexpected new idea that feels like a deep breath after a long day.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
— Proverbs 3:5–6

When you need strength—to speak up for your child, to navigate family conversations, or to stay grounded when you’d rather step away—remember this promise:

“The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace.”
— Psalm 29:11

Peace and strength are not earned; they are gifts, and they’re available to you right now.

This Month, Let’s Choose:

• To thank God for what is, instead of wishing for what could be.
• To seek His presence before responding to pressure.
• To breathe grace into every yes and every no.
• To find joy in the small, sacred moments that no one else may see—the snuggle on the couch, the laugh during a movie, the quiet meal shared in safety.

No matter what this season looks like for your family, remember that God delights in you. He sees your effort, your heart, and your deep love.

May November be a month of peace, prayer, and presence—a reminder that thanksgiving isn’t a day, but a posture of the heart.

“Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise;
give thanks to Him and praise His name.”
— Psalm 100:4

Stay Mighty,

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