Expressing thankfulness can be easy when life is good, but God calls us to be thankful in ALL circumstances. How can we show gratitude when life becomes challenging?
In Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV), Paul the Apostle writes, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” I have so much to be thankful for. I have a precious family, the most amazing friends, a great job, and a church family I am proud to be part of. Counting all my blessings comes easily, and the list of good things in my life could go on and on.
However, when I reflect on all I have been through in life, I can clearly see there were things to be thankful for when times were difficult. During those challenging times, I experienced spiritual growth and came to know the Lord in a different way. Those trials taught me life lessons that helped shape me into who God called me to be.
My parents’ divorce taught me to understand the importance of faithfulness and family. My diagnosis of a chronic illness at a young age taught me to have hope and believe in God’s healing. Rejection and disappointments in my relationships and friendships over the years led me to find my self-worth in Christ Jesus and understand His unfailing love for me. And grieving over the loss of my husband revealed the sweetest intimacy with my Savior, as I had to cling to Him and trust that He was working all things for good. I honestly can say that I am thankful for how the Lord used each of these times in my life to draw me closer to Him.
As Christians, we are not promised that God will shield us from life’s hardships. But the Lord blesses us in the midst of it all. Knowing how deeply God loves us can help create a heart of gratitude in any circumstance we face. Today, ask God to reveal to you the blessings He has poured over you amid your struggles.
In Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV), Paul the Apostle writes, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” I have so much to be thankful for. I have a precious family, the most amazing friends, a great job, and a church family I am proud to be part of. Counting all my blessings comes easily, and the list of good things in my life could go on and on.
However, when I reflect on all I have been through in life, I can clearly see there were things to be thankful for when times were difficult. During those challenging times, I experienced spiritual growth and came to know the Lord in a different way. Those trials taught me life lessons that helped shape me into who God called me to be.
My parents’ divorce taught me to understand the importance of faithfulness and family. My diagnosis of a chronic illness at a young age taught me to have hope and believe in God’s healing. Rejection and disappointments in my relationships and friendships over the years led me to find my self-worth in Christ Jesus and understand His unfailing love for me. And grieving over the loss of my husband revealed the sweetest intimacy with my Savior, as I had to cling to Him and trust that He was working all things for good. I honestly can say that I am thankful for how the Lord used each of these times in my life to draw me closer to Him.
As Christians, we are not promised that God will shield us from life’s hardships. But the Lord blesses us in the midst of it all. Knowing how deeply God loves us can help create a heart of gratitude in any circumstance we face. Today, ask God to reveal to you the blessings He has poured over you amid your struggles.
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2 Comments
Thank you for sharing Andi! You are such a talented writer and enjoy reading your great messages! â¤ï¸
Thank you for your words on thankfulness. It's an important reminder to love the Lord through good times and hard times. He never fails us!