Will We Thank God No Matter What Happens?

Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1st Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV

Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1st Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV

Have you and I gotten to the place where we can really say we thank God no matter what happens? Just this week, a dear friend was in a wreck with a stolen car. Another friend had a painful blurry eye. Still another had a urinary tract infection. Then still another had to have an MRI which revealed a torn meniscus. For me, it was not meeting a deadline because the mouse with my computer would not move on the screen even after batteries were replaced.

Perhaps you or someone you know had even a larger challenge? Does a week go by that seems ‘perfect?’ No, life is not that way. Jesus said, “In this world you will have troubles. . .” John 16:33. We must be careful to not blame God for our troubles, but realize He will see us through. Perhaps it is time for you and me to pause to write down a list of the blessings God has given us today!

Seldom have I considered the verse “Thank the Lord no matter what happens.” But there it leaps from the page in 1st Thessalonians 5:18a. How often do you or I bother to open the most read book—the Bible? Yes, my goal is to read two or three chapters every morning. We do learn most by reading a small portion each day considering how the words may apply in this season of our life.

Who will we see who needs a word of encouragement? Who will we see who is hiding hurt behind that ‘faked smile?’ Who has not felt kindness from anyone else today? Who needs a compliment? Is there a family member or friend who has been taken for granted?

Yes, after we thank the Lord for whatever—good or challenging—that is happening in our lives—how will we use God’s love in the relationships we have with others today?