“Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” I Thessalonians 5:18
I once mentioned this to a friend, another widow.
“I don’t know how that could be,” she replied, referring to the the initial command.
Me either, at the time. Still I couldn’t stop thinking about how this is God’s will for me. I decided to give it a try, and deliberately thanked God for my life from Him, all of it. My eyes and heart were opened and I became actually thankful! Wow.
Now, during the several years since my losses, I am seeing wonders in my life. I have a new purpose and a goal, and these bring me joy. I am writing about a grief journey on which Jesus accompanies me – Hope and a Future! Who knows how many people may be helped?
Giving thanks is an act of will. It’s not based on my feelings. Once I got ahold of that idea, I was able to do it, and God provided the rest. The benefits are many – a closer walk with Jesus, deeper contentment, a new sense of purpose. These developed over time, as my faith grew.
I now relax and trust that God is caring for me and directing every aspect of my life. Gratitude is a faith builder.