Fulfilled: Devotions For Single WomenSample

Thankful, in spite of . . .Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow. - Melody Beattie

You think you’ve got problems? Yes, you surely do; we all have our own set of problems, some worse than others. But during World War II, Corrie ten Boom faced more difficulties than I can even imagine when she was confined with her sister in Ravensbruck, one of the most notorious Nazi prison camps in Germany.

One special problem Corrie and her barracks mates faced was a terrible infestation of fleas. The fleas were thick and biting, a very real health issue. (Just think of how aggravating one flea is to your pet and multiply that by thousands.) But while most women would have whined and complained about their circumstances, Corrie thanked God for the fleas.

How could Corrie be grateful for fleas? Because of the horrendous fleas, the cruel prison guards would not enter the barracks. So Corrie and her sister were able to conduct uninterrupted Bible studies with the other women, bringing many of them to Christ. They were focused on the bigger picture—souls over fleas. They knew that God had not forgotten them—He had blessed them with fleas!

What are the fleas in your life? Unruly teenagers? Financial stresses? Pesky relationships? You name them. Whatever they are, be thankful for a God who is bigger than your difficulties, a God who sees the whole picture of your life, not just this irritating moment in time. Learn to thank God for His blessings in spite of your current problems. Be grateful that He has not forgotten you. And, yes, be thankful for your fleas, because they may well be opportunities in disguise.

Father, thank You for seeing my whole life from womb to tomb and for blessing me with whatever You know I need to guide me ultimately to You, fleas and all.

Mary Hollingsworth