“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus”

1 Thessalonians 5:18

It has been a challenging last 2 months. One thing after another, and physical pain seems to have been the central theme.

There came a day, where I finally got sick of listening to myself complain about pain. How my husband put up with me, is a wonder. I am sure it was his prayers, very wisely offered silently, that got me to this place.

Has this ever happened to you? Have you ever just got tired of all the complaining and groaning, no matter how true or seemingly justified it may have been? I finally realized that complaining about the pain was getting me nowhere. I did not feel any better after my whining.

Last week, as I was working through the list we walked through at church titled, “How to Pray for Yourself”. The second point was:

Give thanks in all your circumstances.

For obvious daily blessings, mercies and answered prayers
Thank Him even in hardship, for what He is producing through it, in you

When I first read this point, I was tempted to just skip it. Thankfully, God in His kindness reminded me that there is still so much to give thanks for no matter what I was feeling at that moment. When I asked Him what He was doing in me, all I heard was: “I am giving to you what it takes to endure - My strength.”

How refreshing to choose a different posture. The sun shone a bit brighter and the light at the end of all this, seemed a little less distant.

I realize that all I have had to endure is temporary. And that alone is worthy of a hearty thanksgiving. I have many dear friends who are passing through long valleys of suffering and struggle. I pray that in that valley, dear friend, the Lord who is with you, will point out little things to give thanks for.

I think there is a good reason the Lord instructs us to give thanks in all circumstances. It truly helps us along our journey. It is as if the Lord has given us new eyes to see that it begins with thanksgiving and leads to hope!

Dear Father,

Thank you for this precious reminder of the importance of giving thanks in every circumstance. Lord, I pray that you would show me even now what You would like me to say thank you for.

In Jesus Name

Amen