Finding Gratitude When Your Heart Is Grieving

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sft In this heartfelt Thanksgiving episode of Spiritually Fit Today, host Arnie Cole is joined by Dr. Rob Rhodes to address the difficult topic of empty chairs around the holiday table—those moments when loved ones are missing and grief feels especially close. Together, they explore how to fill those empty spaces with hope, gratitude, and the comforting presence of God. Drawing on Psalm 34:18, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit,” Arnie and Dr. Rhodes offer practical and spiritual guidance for navigating loss, loneliness, and the complex emotions that surface during the holidays. Dr. Rhodes shares insights on the grieving process, the importance of community, and how to honor memories while moving forward. They discuss the power of acknowledging emotions like anger and sadness, and the value of reaching out to others who may also be struggling. Whether you’re facing your first holiday after a loss or supporting someone who is, this episode provides encouragement and actionable steps to find hope and healing. Take action with the 4 R’s: Read: Spend time with Psalm 34:18 and John 11:35 (“Jesus wept”). Let these verses remind you of God’s nearness in your grief. Reflect: Consider the empty chairs in your life. What memories or emotions do they bring up? How can you invite God’s comfort into those spaces? Respond: Pray, “Lord, thank you that you draw near to the brokenhearted. Fill the empty chairs and hearts with your presence, and help me to find hope in you today.” Reveal: Reach out to someone spending the holidays alone. Remind them that God hasn’t forgotten them—and neither have you. Share this episode or a word of encouragement to bring hope to someone else. If you have thoughts or want to answer today’s question—why did Jesus weep?—email Arnie at [e-mail]. Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up daily. Celebrate the step you took today, and share this episode with someone who needs hope and strength. New episodes of Spiritually Fit Today are released every weekday. Keywords: Thanksgiving grief, empty chair, Arnie Cole, Dr. Rob Rhodes, Spiritually Fit Today, Christian encouragement, Bible hope, Psalm 34:18, Jesus wept, holiday loss, spiritual fitness, Christian podcast, grief support, faith and loss, Christian holidays, Back to the Bible