Most of us have been blessed in many ways those we can easily see and some that require a head tilt and a squint to bring the blessing into focus. Things happen that are negative, we struggle, we hurt, we don’t get our way, we get angry with God. Believe me I’ve been there and as a continually evolving spirit I will be again. But after the tears, the tantrums, the outburst and the stormy seas of trauma or heartache have begun to subside its important to remember to thank Him for our trials and tribulations. James wrote to consider it pure joy for trials and tribulation because the testing of your faith produces perseverance and eventually perfection in other words it makes you complete and whole (James 1:2).

When I initially began to read stories like Job and heard about praising God through your pain in church and bible studies all I could think of was why on earth would I be grateful for the things I didn’t want or don’t have? It was crazy to me, but as I grew in Christ I learned that being thankful wasn’t just for the things we deem as good but also for the tiny struggles, the disappointments and hurts, I also began to understand why. It’s at these points in life that we mature as a Christians. God is taking us from that baby bottle to mushy baby food and eventually meat. So why not praise Him? Usually at those times we’re gaining knowledge from life lessons, developing our faith and learning to depend on Him.

God’s word says to give ‘thanks always for ALL things’ (Ephesians 5:20) not just the stuff we want, like that promotion but also for the demotion. Praise Him for not getting that house or job and for the break up you didn’t see coming, you never know what He’s saving you from. Personally, I had to learn to thank God for not being married or having the family I wanted at this time in my life (I go into why a little bit here). I also had to be thankful for the things I went through in my past with men because it educated me, grew me up and now I can pass on what I know for sure to help others.

It may not be easy or something you want to do but it’s an invaluable lesson learning to praise Him through your struggles and pain. As this holiday season rolls around and so many of us gather to be with loved ones find at least one thing you have been wanting and thank Him for not bringing it yet. Think of one thing that hurts your heart and thank Him for the experience. Think of the lessons instead of the loss, focus on the good that has or may come out of a bad situation. Shift your focus to one of Philippians 4:8 point of view. We ALL need encouragement every now and then, so let me remind you that you are blessed beyond measure and He has great things in store for you. Be grateful for eventually being on your journey to completeness and wholeness by thanking Him for what you have and what you don’t!

1 Thessalonians 5:18 – in everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you

I want to know what you’re thankful for not having this holiday season, comment below!

Here’s to a purposeFULL life!
Court