Gratitude

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 esv

Many times this verse is misquoted as “give thanks for all things.” Think of it! Being grateful for the flat tire on the way to work; thankful for that argument with your spouse that left you with hurt feelings; thankful for the flu that touched everyone in your household. Is this proof that God is asking too much?

But what is he really asking? To give thanks in all circumstances. That sounds different—but maybe just as hard. When we are faced with heartache, disappointments, or loss, it can be easier to focus on what we do not have, or the ways events did not turn out as we expected. It can be easy to slip into trying to manipulate circumstances in our favor. The problem is that our view is short-sighted. We stop seeking God’s will. Our focus is turned inward … and limited.

What God is inviting us to do in times of distress is to turn our focus to him and the blessings he has provided. When we refocus, we realize that God has been faithful in the past and continues to be in the present. We start to remember that he has demonstrated his faithfulness in both good times and bad. When we focus on being grateful, the suffering and pain of today starts to shrink in comparison to what we know God can do. Our trust can grow and our anxiety lessen. Our mood can become more joyous and turn to praise and thanksgiving rather than complaint.

In moments of sorrow, give thanks, and be glad.

Gratitude … makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.

Melody Beattie

It is only with gratitude that life becomes rich.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.

Charles Dickens

For Further Reflection

Psalm 118:24; Colossians 3:15; Psalm 103:2–5

Today’s Prayer

Father, although I am struggling, I am willing to be grateful in my circumstances. Please help me to find something to be grateful for every day. Help me to see what I have instead of what I do not have. Amen.