“give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭18‬ ‭

The Christian life is meant to be lived in accordance with God’s will. The Holy Spirit works within us to help us transform into being more and more like Christ but we have to cooperate with that process through obedience. It is being in God’s will that we yield the most fruit. This verse gives us a clear and practical directive of His will: to give thanks. This is something anyone can apply to their life. Notice it doesn’t say we are to give thanks “for” all circumstances but to give thanks “in” all circumstances. I keep a gratitude journal. It’s a discipline I have found helpful in practicing gratitude. Even in my darkest and hardest days, I can find things to be grateful for. If earthly circumstances are hard, I focus on eternal circumstances and promises. I also look to those who were able to endure suffering and remain faithful and they were always able to give thanks in their circumstances. Examples include Joseph and the apostle Paul, Corey Ten Boom and Anne Frank. 

I love this quote from Anne: 

“I lie in bed at night, after ending my prayers with the words 'Ich danke dir für all das Gute und Liebe und Schöne.' (Thank you, God, for all that is good and dear and beautiful.)” - Anne Frank

Prayer: May gratitude shift your focus from the pain and suffering of a broken world to the love of your Heavenly Father. May the Holy Spirit reveal to you what is good and dear and beautiful.

Please write a couple of lines of Thanksgiving in the comments.