Good morning.
For those who are experiencing financial problems, or are grieving, or find themselves exhausted by work or family situations, giving thanks is difficult.
We often think that giving thanks is something we do in response to our circumstances. Yet Paul makes clear that followers of Christ are thankful not only because of their circumstances but even despite them.
Paul writes to the church in Philippi (a church experiencing persecution and financial hardship), "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." (Philippians 4:4, 6)
Does that mean we must force ourselves to be grateful when we aren’t? Or tell ourselves that things aren’t really that bad, even when they are? Not at All! Paul shows us throughout Philippians, the source of our thankfulness is the hope of the gospel.
By reflecting on the ways in which God has been at work in our lives, we develop a heart of thanksgiving.
Have a good day. There is so much to be thankful for.
Blessings.
Mike and Daphne
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