Giving Thanks Thursday

Today, probably more than most other days, I think about the many blessings in my life. Of course everyone is thankful for the obvious good things; food, clothing, shelter, job, health, loved ones. It took me some years before understanding that God also wants me to thank Him for trials, too. There are so many examples of Christians that have gone through tragic experiences, even unto death, and have had a testimony of gratefulness for them. Not focusing on the anguish, but on the faith they gain. The most famous example for today's theme would be the Pilgrims. Their losses and hardships were extreme and look at their reputation of gratitude. When bad things make me run to God, read His word and pray "without ceasing", even though my world gets crushed and I may never understand why, He assures me that it is for my spiritual welfare (Romans 8:28), so I really can thank Him for EVERYTHING.

Ephesians 5:20 always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God;

1Thess. 5:16-18 Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

Hebrews 12:11 All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.

Psalm 119:67 Before I was afflicted I went astray, But now I keep Your word.