It was early Saturday morning. Thunder was rolling in the background; it did not feel like a good time for an appointment – yet I had one scheduled.
The appointment didn’t turn out the way I thought it would. Silently, I walked to my vehicle. I was ready for some good news. I know the power of words and I purpose in my heart to be quiet until I hear from God. This day it took some time.
I was lying quietly on my bed when I heard these all-to-familiar words. “In everything give thanks for it is the will of God concerning you.” (1 Thess. 5:18)
God is faithful, I know this to be true. I also know God expects even the discouraged to remain thankful in everything – not FOR everything, but in everything – it’s His will for us.
As I lay there, I began to make my thankful list in my head.
- I am so very thankful that I have true friends who I know are praying for me right now.
- I am so very thankful for my daughter and grandkids.
- I am so very thankful for my sister, who, when she could do nothing else, spoke the word of God to me.
- I am thankful that the Word of God is the ONLY truth, and that truth will prevail.
- I am thankful for Jesus who paid a heavy price for my healing.
- I am thankful for God who is so very faithful.
- I am thankful for Holy Spirit who is always with me.
- I am thankful for my family who loves me.
- I am thankful for the laughter and the hugs of my grandkids.
- I am thankful for this ministry and our partners.
The list could go on and on….
Also, I am thankful for the many scriptures that promise us a good ending, such as.
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11
But the Lord was my support. He also brought me out into a broad place; He delivered me because He delighted in me. Psalm 18:18-19
From the LORD comes deliverance. Psalm 3:8
I don’t know what you are walking through today – but I do know this. I have never seen so many of God’s people under attack.
For some it is physical. For some it is financial. For some, people are coming against them hard and harsh. But this I know. Jesus has overcome for us. Our part is to continue to speak His Word and stand together with one another. We are stronger together.
It’s okay to feel broken hearted. It’s okay to have a meltdown. But it’s not okay to stay down. We must arise and shine for we are the light of the world. And we must give thanks in every season. There is always something to be thankful for, even when you think there isn’t.
Give thanks today. Make your list. Be thankful. It is God’s will for you and for me.
