Being thankful

‘. . .  give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you I Christ Jesus.’ 1 Thessalonians 5.18
 
Sometimes it is easy and natural to give thanks; at other times, especially when we are surrounded by trying circumstances or if we feel that God has let us down, we may wonder what to give thanks for, and why.
 
It would, of course, be true to say that there is always something for which we can give thanks. The very fact that we are in a living relationship with God is something that is entirely his initiative, and is something for which we can be thankful. But actually it is more than that. It is about our attitude and our focus. If we can give thanks in difficult circumstances, it says something about us. We are not focused simply on our own needs or the enormity of our problems when we turn to face him.
 
For what do we give thanks in these situations? It probably doesn’t matter; what we are doing is seeking to develop an attitude focused on God in all circumstances.
 
Whatever your situation, take a moment now to turn to him and give thanks. It doesn’t matter what you give thanks for, simply turn to face our generous God.

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