Fall into Faith: A Simple 4 Week Bible Study on Gratitude and Embracing Change

As the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, fall becomes a season of transformation—a time to let go of what no longer serves us and embrace new beginnings. It’s the perfect moment to reflect on two powerful themes: gratitude and change. For young women navigating the ups and downs of life, these themes can be grounding forces. So, I’ve created a simple, 4 week fall-themed Bible study to help us dive deeper into both gratitude and change, leaning into God’s Word as we walk through this season together.

Week 1: Gratitude in All Circumstances

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

We all know life doesn’t always feel like pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters. Sometimes, it’s more like a pile of leaves you’ve just raked—only to have the wind scatter them again. I remember last fall when my fiancé was away for military training, and I felt completely alone. Gratitude was the last thing on my mind. But slowly, I started to thank God for the little things: a phone call from a friend, a sunny day, even a good cup of coffee. It wasn’t instant, but it helped.

This week, we’re focusing on finding gratitude even in the messy moments. Reflect on times when you didn’t feel grateful but realized later that God was working behind the scenes.

Activity: Start a gratitude journal this week. Each day, write down three things you’re thankful for—big or small. As the season changes, notice how your perspective shifts too.

Week 2: The Beauty of Letting Go

Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”

Fall is nature’s reminder that change is inevitable. The trees shed their leaves, not because they’re dying, but to prepare for new growth. Sometimes, we need to let go of things we’ve been clinging to—old habits, relationships, or expectations. I’ve always been someone who hates change, but last fall taught me that letting go isn’t always a loss. When my fiancé was away, I realized I had to release my tight grip on control and trust God to carry me through.

This week, let’s reflect on what God might be asking us to release in order to grow in the upcoming season.

Activity: Take a walk outside and find a leaf that’s fallen from a tree. As you hold it, pray about something you’ve been holding onto that you need to let go of. Ask God to give you the strength to release it.

Week 3: Sowing Seeds of Gratitude

Scripture: Galatians 6:9

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Just as farmers plant seeds in spring to harvest in fall, we, too, are constantly sowing seeds in our lives. This week, we’ll focus on sowing seeds of gratitude, kindness, and generosity, trusting that God will bring a harvest in His perfect timing. I remember baking cookies for my neighbor one particularly lonely afternoon, just to feel like I was doing something kind. It wasn’t a huge act, but it lifted my mood and reminded me how a small seed of kindness can grow into something bigger.

Activity: Perform a random act of kindness. Whether it’s sending an encouraging text, buying a friend coffee, or serving someone in need, be intentional about sowing seeds of gratitude and joy.

Week 4: Embracing Change with Faith

Scripture: Isaiah 43:19

“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

Change can feel intimidating, but when we trust that God is doing something new, we can embrace it with confidence. This week, we’re focusing on the new things God is doing in our lives. For me, the biggest change was learning how to navigate long stretches apart from my fiancé. It was hard, and some days I doubted I could handle it. But with each season, God showed me that I could grow in unexpected ways—like learning to lean on Him when everything felt uncertain.

Where is God calling you to step out in faith? What new opportunities or challenges are on the horizon?

Activity: Write down one area of your life where you sense God is doing something new. Pray for the courage to walk into that change, trusting that He is with you every step of the way.

As we move through this fall Bible study, let’s remember that God is constant, even as the seasons shift. Gratitude and change go hand in hand—when we’re rooted in thankfulness, we’re more open to the new things God is doing. Let this season be one of reflection, release, and renewal as we embrace both the beauty of fall and the promises of God’s Word.