Not just saying “thank you,” but genuinely practicing gratitude even during difficult seasons.
Do you think gratitude actually changes a person internally or changes how they see the world around them?
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“give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thes 5:18
It doesn’t say to give thanks FOR all circumstances, but IN all circumstances and that is something we can do. I remember reading The Hiding Place and Corrie ten boom’s sister Bestie began giving thanks for the fleas that were in their barracks. Corrie questioned her on it, but Bestie knew this verse and was determined to live it out. Turns out that it was the fleas that kept the guards out of the barracks and was the reason the woman of that barracks could meet every night for a Bible study and praise. Go figure.
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Sometimes Ellen, I just want to give you a big hug. I could spend hours and hours talking about all the changes God has made to me in the 3 years of incarceration, but beyond a doubt, the biggest change is my gratitude.
On the outside, I was a high-paid, highly skilled, highly arrogant locomotive engineer. In here, I am less than nothing, looked down upon by virtually everyone else. I have nothing, no money, no love, and no support except that which God has provided. My ex-girlfriend and her fiancé, my best friend, and my crosswalk family are all I have.
Now I have become truly grateful and humble; can’t have one without the other! Every tray, every cup of coffee, I give sincere thanks for. My family here who send me gifts I use to spread the word and give glory to Jesus, I am so very, very grateful for.
I had to be humbled to ask for help. Mission accomplished. The Lord wants us to LITERALLY depend on Him for everything (Matthew 6:25-34). If you rely on your own strength for physical needs, then when it comes to spiritual battles, you’ll do the same and fail big time!
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I was never grateful that I can walk until my boyfriend lost his ability to walk. It was his loss that made me conscious of my working legs and I’ve been thankful since.
I went through a very difficult time for several years that I don’t really want to talk about, but I learned a lot, am grateful that it’s over and know God’s protection.
I worked for a wonderful, wealthy and elderly man who lived in a multi million dollar condo by the lake. When his age crept up on him, he moved to a distinguished seniors home on the 6th floor and lamented the loss of his condo. His health deteriorated and he was moved to the 3rd floor that provided more care. His lake side condo was no longer an issue and now he lamented his 6th floor residence. He was never grateful for what he had when he had it and only appreciated it when it was gone.
I decided that I didn’t want to be that person. There’s so much that we take for granted and never give a thought of gratitude. No matter your situation, there is something to be grateful for. The cup is always half full or even full, but it’s never half empty.
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I do! It changes everything! Especially during difficult seasons.
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