“…give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Paul is very direct when he said, “all circumstances”. We tend to create our own exceptions when it comes to having a grateful attitude; when the Word says ALL circumstances, good or bad! No matter the situation, we are to find reason to thank God.
To live with an unthankful attitude is to live in contradiction to a life with Christ. Is it unreasonable for God to ask that from us? Wouldn’t ungratefulness be acceptable in certain situations? According to the Word, it is not! Even in the toughest of situations, we are not asked, but commanded to find reason to give thanks to God.
I can’t count the number of times this month alone that God has provided for me. Through my business, through my family, and here with my ministry at Kingsview, I have seen firsthand how our God is one who provides. We have to focus on all that He has provided on a daily basis, rather than on what we perceive as lack. Even in the darkest situations, God is working in us and doing something for us to be thankful for.
If ungratefulness is something you really struggle with, I would encourage you to start a gratefulness journal. At the end of each day, write down 2-5 things that you are grateful to God for that day. Your life with Christ will deepen, and soon all you will see are the overwhelming blessings the Lord has given!