We are facing a tough time now as a nation with political uncertainty, and globally with the fear of a virus pandemic. However, we can be thankful, even in these times of uncertainty, because the Bible encourages us to do so.
“… give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV
Giving thanks in all circumstances is an act that the Bible says, is not just for our or someone else’s benefit, but it is the very purpose God intended for us! It is His will for our lives.
Giving thanks in hard times is often a shift in mindset as well as a trained discipline. It is a mindset shift because you have to learn to look for opportunities of praise rather than convenience of complaint. And it is a discipline because the more you do it, the better and easier it comes for you.
Paul was in jail when he wrote to the Philippians, but his letter opens with thanksgiving and encouragement. And these are some instances we can be very grateful to God for in the times of uncertainty we face:
We can be thankful to God that we have clean water and soap to wash our hands, because there are people in the world who don’t even have access to clean water, yet alone soap. Don’t complain about the inconvenience of washing our hands every 10 minutes. Thank Him for clean water.
We can be thankful to God that we have a home to stay in, because there are people in the world who don’t even have a room to stay in. Don’t complain about being house-bound and not being able to go to our favourite coffee shop. Thank Him for a home.
We can be thankful to God that we have modern hospitals and dedicated medical staff to examined, treat and quarantine the sick, because there are places where people have to walk for days just to see a doctor. If you’re in hospital, don’t look at the inconvenience or discomfort. Thank Him for this providence.
We can be thankful to God that we have the money to buy masks, soap and sanitisers, because there are people in the world who can’t even afford a bar of soap. Don’t complain that masks are out of stock. Thank God that He has provided for your needs.
If you are quarantined at home, be thankful to God that you have a reason to be home, because in some war-torn countries, people stay home in order to not become collateral damage. Don’t complain that you to eat grab food everyday. Thank God that for time, that you can spend with family or on completing a book or movie.
We can be thankful to God that we have a church, and we have freedom to attend church, because there are people in the world who want a church but don’t have one, and there are others who get punished for going to church. Don’t complain about church. Thank Him for the church.
We can be thankful to God that we don’t have civil war or violence in our country, because there are countries that have been having the same dictator leadership for decades. Don’t be restless and uneasy because of the new leadership. Thank Him for peace.
Dear Heavenly Father,
You are a gracious and loving God, who provides for our needs. Help me to realise that I am in a far better position than others around the world. Help me to be grateful for what I have, instead of complaining and worrying about what I don’t have. In Jesus Name, Amen.
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