“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16).
Sometimes it’s hard to give thanks in every circumstance. I find it a bit easier to do so when I look for the blessing in the not-so-pleasant circumstance. I hope these suggestions will help you, also.
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When your to-do list is way too long give thanks for your mental capabilities to make the list. Then think about how to shorten it, either by delegating some tasks to others or deleting it if not absolutely necessary at this point in time. Be thankful you can figure that out.
When you’re busy with meal preparation give thanks for the family and friends who will share it with you.
When the car breaks down give thanks that you have a car.
When you pay the mortgage give thanks for the shelter provided by that house.
When your loved one is in the hospital give thanks for doctors and nurses who care for the sick.
When you’re feeling miserable with a cold give thanks for meds and a comfortable bed in which to rest.
When you are unable to be with family give thanks for phones or internet to stay in touch.
When your favorite recipe doesn’t turn out just right give thanks you had the strength to prepare it in the first place and the means to buy the ingredients.
When you’re so tired from working your job you don’t feel like putting one foot in front of the other give thanks for the job that provides an income.
When you’re up half the night with a sick child give thanks you have that child to love and care for. That child may need to care for you some day.
When your faith is weak and you doubt God, give thanks for His Word and other Christians. His Word can strengthen your faith and other Christians can encourage you on your way.
“I thank my God every time I remember you” (Philippians 1:3).
I am thankful for you, my readers. I pray you will find a blessing in every circumstance.
Happy Thanksgiving!