...in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thes. 5:18
One thing that is missing in times of trouble is an attitude of gratitude. It is far easier to grumble and complain about all we do not have in this troubled economy. It is so easy to slip into our ungrateful selves and forget all that we have been blessed with.
Becoming angry and bitter is an easy trap to fall into and I can assure you that you will find yourself there if you do not practice gratitude.
always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, Eph. 5:20
Paul's exhortation to give thanks does not only apply to the good and happy times in life. It is challenging but doable to be thankful when the chips are down and the days bring trials and heartache. I know it is much easier to see things through eyes of hopelessness.
I want to encourage you today to make a concerted effort to go through your day and thank God for the simple things. Living where we do I see constant reminders of the pioneers who came through this area on their way west. Their lives were incredibly hard and yet as I read about them I can see they were thankful for things each day brought their way. There are times I have to practice gratitude and hearing the gentle birdsong of the Cardinal at the feeder off the deck, and watching the beautiful Finches and Orioles that flit and twitter all day long are two simple things for which I am thankful.
As hard as things may seem, we have a God who is faithful and true. He promises to take care of us, and provide for our basic needs. There are always things to be thankful for...we just have to be willing to look for them.