As we approach Thanksgiving, it’s a time to pause and reflect on the year behind us.

In the fast-paced world of real estate, where we’re constantly moving from one project to the next, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget to take a moment to look back with gratitude.

For those of us who believe in a higher power, this is an especially important time to give thanks to God for the blessings and opportunities we’ve experienced in our business.

1. Recognizing God’s Hand in Our Achievements

The real estate market is unpredictable, filled with ups and downs. When we achieve success—whether it’s closing a big deal, securing a new client, or finding the perfect property—it’s tempting to credit it all to our hard work and strategies.

But as people of faith, we recognize that God’s guidance and favor play a crucial role in these successes.

In Proverbs 16:3, we read: “Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” This verse is a powerful reminder that our achievements are not solely the result of our efforts but are also a reflection of God’s provision and grace. By dedicating our work to Him, we acknowledge that every victory and every step forward in our business is a gift from above.

2. Finding Purpose Beyond Profit

In the real estate industry, we often measure success by numbers—sales figures, commission percentages, and market share. While these metrics are important, they don’t tell the full story.

As we give thanks to God this Thanksgiving season, it’s a chance to reflect on the deeper purpose of our work.

Real estate isn’t just about transactions; it’s about helping people find homes, build investments, and create spaces where life happens.

We are part of something bigger than ourselves, and our success allows us to positively impact others.

By giving thanks to God, we also ask for the wisdom and guidance to use our business achievements for a greater good, serving our clients and communities with integrity and care.

3. Overcoming Challenges with God’s Help

Every business journey comes with its own set of challenges—difficult clients, market downturns, and deals that fall through.

It’s during these tough times that our faith is truly tested.

However, looking back, we can often see that God was with us even in the difficult seasons, teaching us perseverance, patience, and reliance on Him.

Romans 8:28 tells us: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” This is a powerful reminder that even when things don’t go according to our plans, God’s purpose is at work.

The challenges we’ve faced have shaped us, refined our character, and ultimately contributed to our growth.

4. Giving Back as an Act of Gratitude

True thanksgiving is not just about words but also about action.

One of the best ways to express our gratitude to God for our business achievements is by giving back.

This could mean supporting local charities, sponsoring community events, or offering your real estate expertise to those in need—perhaps helping a family find affordable housing or mentoring someone new to the industry.

In Luke 6:38, Jesus says, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.” Giving generously as a business not only reflects our gratitude but also aligns us with God’s heart for generosity and kindness.

5. Setting New Goals with God’s Guidance

As we look forward to the coming year, it’s important to set new goals and ambitions for our real estate business.

But instead of setting these plans in motion on our own, let’s take time to seek God’s guidance first. Pray for wisdom in decision-making, for the right partnerships, and for opportunities to use our business as a tool to serve His purposes.

James 1:5 promises us: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” By placing our trust in God, we can move forward with confidence, knowing that our plans are aligned with His will.

Thanksgiving is a perfect time to express your gratitude to God in a meaningful way. Here are some unique and impactful ways you could give thanks:

1. Host a Gratitude Dinner with a Spiritual Focus

Invite friends and family for a dinner, but make it a special time of thanksgiving to God. Before the meal, each person can share something they are grateful for and offer a prayer of thanks.
Set up a “Thanksgiving Jar” where guests can write down their gratitude to God. Read these notes aloud as a part of the gathering.

2. Create a Personal Psalm or Song of Thanksgiving

Following the example of King David, write your own psalm or song of thanksgiving. Reflect on the blessings you’ve received this year and put them into words. If you play an instrument, you can turn it into a song or a spoken prayer.

3. Volunteer or Give Back in God’s Name

Volunteer at a local shelter, food bank, or church outreach program. Dedicate your time as an act of thanksgiving to God, serving others as Jesus taught.
Consider giving a donation to a cause that aligns with your values, thanking God by being a blessing to others.

4. Spend a Day of Fasting and Prayer

Set aside a day for fasting and prayer, focused entirely on thanking God. Use the time you would normally spend eating to pray, reflect, and express gratitude for the ways God has guided you.

5. Create a Thanksgiving Prayer Walk

Go on a walk or hike in nature, spending time in prayer and thanksgiving to God for His creation. As you walk, thank Him for the beauty around you, for specific blessings, and for His faithfulness.

6. Make a Gratitude Vision Board

Create a vision board that represents all the things you’re thankful for. Use it as a visual prayer of thanksgiving. Include pictures, Bible verses, and quotes that reflect your gratitude to God.

7. Celebrate Communion at Home

If you feel comfortable, prepare a small communion service at home as an act of thanksgiving, remembering the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This can be done alone or with loved ones.

8. Write a Thanksgiving Letter to God

Take some time to write a heartfelt letter to God, thanking Him for specific moments, challenges He helped you overcome, and the people He has placed in your life. Seal it and keep it as a reminder of your gratitude, or read it aloud in prayer.

9. Plant a Tree as a Symbol of Thanksgiving

Plant a tree or a plant in your garden as a living symbol of your gratitude. Each time you see it, it will remind you of the blessings you’ve received and your commitment to honor God.

10. Make a “Gratitude Challenge”

Challenge yourself and a group of friends to a “30 Days of Thanksgiving to God” challenge. Each day, write down a new thing you’re thankful for and share it in a group chat or on social media to inspire others.

11. Create a Thanksgiving Video or Journal

Record a video or start a journal where you document what you are thankful for, speaking directly to God in prayer. This can be a powerful reflection tool for the future.

12. Dedicate Your Work or a Project to God

Choose a project or task you’re passionate about and dedicate it to God as a way of giving thanks. Whether it’s a creative project, a business idea, or something for the community, intentionally offer it to God in prayer and ask for His guidance.

13. Attend a Thanksgiving Service

Participate in a church service focused on thanksgiving. Many churches hold special services or events around Thanksgiving where you can join others in worship and express your gratitude to God together.

A Heart of Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving, let’s take a moment to step back from the busyness of the real estate market and truly reflect on the blessings we’ve received. Let’s be thankful not only for the deals closed and the goals achieved but also for the lessons learned, the relationships built, and the guidance we’ve received from God along the way.

May our gratitude lead us to deeper faith, stronger relationships, and a renewed commitment to serve God through our work. As we continue our real estate journey, let’s remember to start each day with a heart of thanksgiving, trusting that God will continue to lead us, provide for us, and bless the work of our hands.

Happy Thanksgiving to all our clients, partners, and colleagues. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve you, and we give thanks to God for the privilege of being part of your real estate journey.