Thankful Thursdays

"Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

- 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Giving thanks sounds easy, doesn't it? Someone does a favor, you say "Thanks". An unexpected gift? "Thanks". Encouragement? "Thanks".

But what about when things don't go our way? Do we still give thanks?

Here's the thing: when everything is going well, we see what we're thankful for, yet we forget to thank God for all we have. When things aren't going well, we complain because all we see is what's going wrong in our lives. Are we ever really thankful?

I look at our home, a nice, comfortable house, completely furnished and decorated to my liking. The pantry is filled with food, we have running water, electricity, books to read, televisions to watch, games to play. Yet how many times have I caught myself wishing we could get new furniture, or that I could change out some items in the home that are old or outdated? It's not that I don't realize how blessed we are. I know there are people in this world who lack even the bare essentials. Our home is a luxury mansion compared to how some families live. Yet there are those times when I forget what a wonderful life we have.

Oh, but when troubles come, I'm quick to complain! There's something I don't forget! I want everything to run like clockwork, with no kinks, no jams, no problems. It's annoying to have things go in a different direction from what I consider to be "the best way". I get grouchy, I pout and sulk and become a pain to be around.

Then this verse will come to mind. "Give thanks in ALL circumstances." When life is running smooth, give thanks. When the road gets rocky and winding and I feel like I'm gonna be sick if I don't get off this roller coaster ride soon, give thanks. No matter what's going on in my life, I need to remind myself that God is in control, and I need to be thankful.

Father, forgive me when I forget how very blessed I am. Thank You for all You've done in my life. Thank You for what You're doing today, and what You'll do tomorrow. Thank You for my salvation, for my family, for the joy in my life. Thank You also for the troubles and the sorrows that teach me to trust and depend on You and not myself. Thank You for those learning curves that are difficult to experience but that draw me closer to You. When I complain Lord, remind me that You promised never to leave me or forsake me. You're with me in the good times and the bad times, and I need not worry for anything. Thank You for loving me. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Thankful Thursdays is hosted this month by Iris at Grace Alone. Have a blessed rest of your week.