“Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

It’s easy to be thankful when things are going our way.  However, when faced with challenges and difficulties, the idea of expressing appreciation or gratitude is a much more difficult concept to grasp.  For example, to say I am thankful for the hugs I receive from my children seems natural.  However, to say I am thankful when the car breaks down might seem like a stretch.

How can we give thanks in all circumstances, including the bad as well as the good?  It’s all a matter of perspective.

When we don’t feel like being thankful, it is important to remember that thankfulness is more than a sentimental feeling.  It is also a conscious behavior motivated by a trust in God, the selfless giver of all things.  That trust in God results from an understanding that we are dependent upon Him for all we have and recognizing that we don’t deserve any of it.  It is only by His grace that we receive forgiveness, salvation and eternal life.

Learning how be thankful in all circumstances begins by cultivating an attitude of gratitude.  To accomplish this, consider the two verses that precede 1 Thessalonians 5:18:

“(16) Rejoice always, (17) pray continually…”

Focusing our eyes on God by delighting in Him and praying to Him allows us to develop a deep sense of gratitude towards God.  That sense of gratitude offers us the motivation to offer thanks, regardless of our circumstances.

And, it’s amazing what an attitude of gratitude can do for our own well being.  It is a practice that can lead to joy and peace.

“Rejoice in the Lord always.  I will say it again: Rejoice!  Let your gentleness be evident to all.  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 minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-7)

While we may not be able to control our circumstances, we can control how we react to them.  Start by choosing to be thankful.

Here are some ways in which I am choosing to be thankful today:

Instead of worrying about the fact that my daughter left the house with a hole in her pants, I choose to be thankful that we are blessed to be able to afford to put clothing on her back.

Instead of becoming frustrated over my son’s picky eating habits, I choose to be thankful for the food upon our table as well as for the fact that my son receives daily nourishment.

Instead of stressing over the mess and clutter around the house, I choose to be thankful for the roof over our heads and the possessions within.

Instead of becoming overwhelmed by our family’s hectic schedule, I choose to be thankful for the opportunity to develop our talents, share our gifts and connect with others in our community.

Instead of lamenting over the fact that I recently spent the better part of two years in a battle with cancer, I choose to be thankful for the powerful lessons I learned as well as the gifts of hope and perspective I received as a result of my experience.

What do you choose to be thankful for today?

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