It is that time of year where we, Americans, give thanks for our many blessings; but what if your heart is heavy and not full of gratitude right now? During the times that we are sad, lonely, depressed, angry, grieving, sick, or walking through the wilderness or desert is when it is most important to reach out to God and thank Him for what He has provided. It is also helpful to look back at a journal or other writings during happier times to remember times of joy, happiness, thanksgiving, answered prayers and other blessings. It helps us keep perspective and not allow our feelings and circumstances to overwhelm us or cloud our view.
Gratitude is easy when life is going well and we are happy with our circumstances. Gratitude becomes a choice when we are unhappy with our circumstances. "Should we accept only good things from the hand of God and never anything bad?" Job 2:10(NLV).
Job lost his possessions, his children, his wife, and finally his health. However, he refused to blame or curse God.
"I came naked from my mother's womb, and I will be stripped of everything when I die. The Lord gave me everything I had, and the Lord has taken it away. Praise the name of the Lord! In all of this, Job did not sin by blaming God." Job 1:21-22(NLV).
There is always something to be thankful for, even in the worst circumstances. I am thankful for answered prayers,family, friends, food, clothing, a home, a warm bed, a job, transportation, freedom to worship without fear, and freedom to write about Him.
I would love to hear what you are thankful for? What blessings, no matter how small, are you thankful? Writing what you are thankful for will help bring about a spirit of gratitude no matter your circumstances; because you will be focusing on God the source of all good gifts and not your current plight.
I pray you have a happy Thanksgiving. May God bless you and keep you and reveal to you His many blessings.
Today, I am participating in Bridget Chumbley's One Word Devotion on Gratitude. To see other devotions on Gratitude click here.
Those words from the book of Job have carried me through many dark hours. In some ways, I think I am learning gratitude all over again.
ReplyDeleteGood post, Heather.
I am grateful for all the small things I have as well as the big. Being a single mom, it's hard to be thankful sometimes...the checkbook is in the red, I am having to do this all alone, life is very hard...but then I remember that I have a son who adores me and thinks I am the best mom in the world, I have a house that has my name on it, a car that is paid for, a job that allows us to makes ends meet. I have to remind myself to be thankful because truly has blessed me!
ReplyDeleteOur hearts are heavy many times, because of loss or lack or perhaps illness. Even though it is difficult, we can offer a sacrifice of praise, that we can send forth knowing that HE is God and that we are always in His hands.
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by. I appreciate the comments. Blessings to you all.
ReplyDeleteHeather, I think we had the same idea in mind as we wrote our posts. Thanks for being part of the carnival!
ReplyDeleteOne of the huge blessings for which we can be thankful: the heavy times -- physically, emotionally, relationally, economically, and on and on -- will not be in place forever. God is the "Blesser"... He will restore, renew, refresh, and pour in re-hope. We [I] can count on that!!!
ReplyDelete