Some of you have had a tough year. You’ve endured your share of criticism. Maybe you’ve lost a job. Maybe you’re going through a rough patch in your marriage.
Can we thank God even when times are tough? Yes, we can.
First Thessalonians 5:18 says, “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (NIV).
This verse does not say to give thanks for everything. It says to give thanks in every circumstance. I see it misinterpreted all the time.
You don’t have to give thanks for evil in the world. The Bible does not tell us to be thankful for evil.
But in every circumstance, no matter how bad it is, I can give thanks to God because . . .
- His purpose is bigger than my problem.
- He will give me the power to overcome my problem.
- I know I will grow through the experience if I allow God to help me grow.
I may not be thankful for evil, but I can be thankful despite evil.
How can you be grateful when you’ve lost your job, your health, or a spouse? You look not at what you’ve lost, but what you have. And you have an awful lot left.
You’re alive, for one thing!
So the question is: What are you taking for granted? Your health? Your freedom? Your relationships?
There is an old song that says, “Count your blessings, name them one by one.” We need to do that. We need to make lists of what we are thankful for—our families, our friends, our ministries, whatever other reasons we are thankful.
When times are tough, that’s when you need to be reminded of everything God has given you.
Becoming a truly grateful person can be the healthiest change you make in your life all year long—better than any diet or exercise plan you start on.
Love isn’t the healthiest emotion out there—gratitude is. When you are thankful despite your circumstances, you’re more resistant to illness and stress.
Besides, you can’t find God’s will for your life when you’re ungrateful. Read 1 Thessalonians 5:18 again. “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will.”
If you’re not living a grateful life—despite your circumstances—you’re out of God’s will. It’s that simple.
Pastor Rick this is Pastor Glenda, I thank God for your articles, devotions, sermons, but most of all your actions! You put love into action through resources, messages, and self!
I’ve used some examples of your resources frequently and it blessed us as a congregation & beyond.
It has ministered to my heart when it was low as a leader & helped me look to Jesus, where all we need comes from!
Blessings thank you
Greenville IL
Thank God for His word. Thank God for Pastor Rick Warren. It’s trully a blessing! We enjoyed your teaching so very much.
Thanks a lot for this and most especially the scripture from 1st Thess 5vs18. I just needed reassurance cos i know what God is to me. Feeling really low after an Interview that I had been on for a while and told I didn’t make it.
God sure has a better plan for me irrespective of my present state.
A M E N!!!