Updated: Nov 17, 2021
Be thankful in all circumstances for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 NLT
Take a moment and think of the things that you are most thankful for. If I had to take a guess, I’d say that you probably thought of things like your family and friends, your job, health, or other things along those lines. More than likely, you didn’t think of things like that time you were badly hurt, or the loss of a close loved one, or being laid off during a pandemic.
Being thankful when things are going well is almost a no-brainer! But what happens when things are going badly? How is it possible to “be thankful in all circumstances” when anger, sadness, or resentment make more sense?
I want to suggest to you that:
Thankfulness is not just a feeling, but it is also an action and a method for getting through even the toughest of situations.
In Philippians 4:6 it says “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, AND thank Him for all He has done.” It doesn’t stop there though! The scripture goes on to say, in verse 7, “THEN you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand.”
I don’t know what situation or circumstance you are currently facing, or will be facing in the future. However, what I do know is that we have been given a guide to follow to get rid of worry and anxiety and receive peace.
Pray: Talk to God! He can handle your frustration, anger, confusion and everything in between!
Ask: Tell God what it is that you need
Give thanks: Recall all the things God has already done for you, throughout your life, and thank Him!
Receive your Peace!
Prayer:
God, thank you for your sovereignty! I ask that you will do exactly what you said in your word, for each person reading this today. As we apply the instructions you have given us, I pray that the peace that exceeds our understanding will guard our hearts and minds. Thank you for your goodness and your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Written By: Britnie McDonald
Photo By:Skip Prichard