“Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18
Giving thanks when times are tough is a sacrifice. When I first heard a homily on the aspect of thanking God for my trials I remember feeling as if it were the most impossible and ridiculous proposition I’d ever been given. However, when I put it to the test and put myself in a place where I could truly break down the situation I began to see the positive that was coming from the trial or tribulation rather than the doom and gloom what I’d been through, or what had been done to me, or what sadness was to come.
The more I began to give thanks for my trials the stronger in spirit I became. Instead of allowing the trial and circumstance to keep me small, shriveled up, defeated and in a ball, by giving thanks I was able to hold on to the handles of the positive to pull myself out of the gloom. I saw that I was still alive, or that I began to care more about myself, or that it drew me closer to God. I could also give thanks for what I could see in my family in our trials and tribulations – that my kids have learned not to think so much of themselves because we have to work together as a team, and that what has befallen us has brought us closer as a family, strengthening the tie that binds.
I give thanks for EVERYTHING I’ve lived through in my life because I would not be who I am today if I didn’t face and conquer my struggles. And I give thanks for my family, friends and all of YOU who have shared a part of yourself with me, allowing me into your life and helping me to help others restore their lives.
Enjoy this blessed day. Set aside the hurts, the frustrations, the blatant trials and tribulations that could be looming every where you turn and break through it all to recognize you are still here, you are strong and for this we give thanks.
Blessings
Shannon
