At all times and for everything give thanks

in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father.

Ephesians 5:20 AMP

It is sometimes impossible to think about “giving thanks” to God in life’s darkest moments. During times of difficulty or tragedy, a thankful thought is the last thing on your mind. Perhaps you are dealing with a health crisis, or relational difficulties with a troubled teen, or marital strife, or oppressive financial burdens, or the death of a loved one, or the pain from broken heart. Regardless of the problem, this verse instructs us to “give thanks.” These types of problems fall under the broad umbrella of “At all times and for everything.”

Instead of thanking God for your problem, thank Him for the strength he is building in you through this difficult experience. Give thanks to Him for the dependency He is building in you to rely on Him for that divine strength. Thank Him for the growth in your personal relationship with Him that this particular experience is developing in you. Thank Him for His faithfulness to fulfill His precious promises to you. Romans 8:28 tells us that in all things God works for our good if we love him and are called according to his purpose. In the midst of a life storm, it is hard to see how any good can come from devastation. Trust God that He is true to His word. And that someday a harvest of “good” will come from this trial.

Also, in 2 Corinthians 12:9 He gives us another assurance: “My grace is sufficient. My power is made perfect in weakness.” Even though you may be so low that it is difficult to put one foot in front of the other, believe that God’s power is being perfected in you through this time of weakness.

Trust Him with every aspect of your life, even in the midst of trouble.

Thank Him at all times and for everything…