Finding Peace During Troubled TimesSample

AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE

In troubled times, meeting our most basic human needs may be a bit more challenging. However, it’s often in times of hardship that even the simplest of things are no longer taken for granted, but cherished.

But that’s just it. We easily forget what we have and tend to fixate on what we wish we had. 

Yet, did you know that it is God’s will for you to have an attitude of gratitude? In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Paul tells us, “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 

Notice, being grateful and thankful isn’t just during the good times, but in all circumstances. Yes, even in the midst of turmoil—you can still show a heart of gratitude to God and others. The reason being is because you know with great certainty that God is still intimately involved in every aspect of your life and is working all things out for His good pleasure.  

This is precisely why, when writing about the greed of money, the writer of Hebrews boldly affirms, “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘“I will never leave you nor forsake you.”’ So we can confidently say, ‘“The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me”’ (13:5-6)?

It certainly is a great promise to know that no matter what you have or don’t have, God will always be there to help you and give you what you need. 

So, be content and grateful for being alive and look to be more generous to others as you humbly acknowledge the blessings God has given you!

Prayer: Jesus, I thank you for all that you have blessed me with. Forgive me for taking things for granted and complaining about certain things. I pray you help me be more grateful and generous with what I have so that I can be a blessing to those around me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!

Action Steps: Find a person or family that lost their job or is in need of some help and look to meet some or all of their tangible needs.