Giving Thanks in All Things
courtesy freedigitalphotos.net
I’m grateful that our country pauses each year in late November to give thanks for all our blessings. We’re especially in need of giving thanks this year, a difficult one for the United States, politically, socially and economically.
Shootings, lootings, mass murders and numerous kinds of other abuse have kept us on our knees in prayer and weeping with compassion for victims and their loved ones. At such times It’s hard to find reasons to be grateful and yet there are–mountains of them and it’s important to find them and focus on them.
God is good–all the time in all situations in every circumstance whether or not we see or feel God’s presence. At such times we can rely on the Lord’s promise to never leave nor forsake us.
I feel compelled to list a few verses here so we can carry on knowing that God will work all things together for good for those who live according to his purpose.
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 | NIV |
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 | NIV |
But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57 | NIV |
Amen! What an inspiring post!
Thank you, Janet.
Love this post Karen. Love you and all your loved ones including your faithful followers here!
Happy Thanksgiving to all. We do have much to be thankful for indeed. We are SO blessed.
Thank you, Kathleen, for always finding the good and being grateful for it.
Amen, sister! three of my favorite verses from one of my favorite people for whom I am enormously thankful!
And I am thankful for you and our sisterhood in Christ.
Yes, those are great reminders. In the midst of tragedy, God is still good and takes such great care of us. I’m so grateful for his love, grace, provision and redemption!
Thank you, Laura. A most happy Thanksgiving Day to you and your family.
We are so blessed to have so many good friends and family. I feel so thankful that God loves me, it takes my breath away when I look at his wondrous creations.
I’m with you on that, Lynn. When things are tough, a simple walk outdoors can restore our perspective.
When I lose myself and think of others who are in such pain and heartbreaking situations it makes me feel guilty to even think of the pain I may have at times and the difficulties that I may be going through because I know without a doubt that God is always with me and regardless of my circumstances I am among the most blessed people on earth! I cannot count the things for which I am thankful. Just the fact that I can read your inspiring and wise words and send you a response is a real blessing! Everyday is a blessing. I am adopting the saying: “no complaints, just thanks”! sometimes I may “slip” a little, after all, I am a human being! smile!
I pray our hearts may be filled with Thanksgiving every day!
Blessings to all! Margaret
What a beautiful comment, Margaret. I love your slogan, “no complaints, just thanks.’ Our pastor said recently that people who are grateful and generous, according to his experience and research, are happier and healthier and lead more satisfying lives–regardless of the circumstances. I have found that to be true, as well.
Wonderful post Karen. Thank you for reminding us that our help is in the Lord. Amen.
Thank you, Carol. Happy Thanksgiving to you and Don.
So well written, Karen. Many times in our life we have offered the sacrifice of praise when there seemed little to be thankful for. In those times we have had to look harder and dig deeper which may, in fact, be exactly what God desired us to do. This year, despite all that is happening around us, we are personally reaping the harvest of many prayers and tears sown. Thank you for your words of encouragement. God is faithful, we are grateful.