In every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (AMP)
Every day of every year, you will always have something to complain about if you look for it. Answers to prayer don’t always come right away. Healing doesn’t always happen instantly. Relationships go through tough times. So…while you are waiting, you have a choice to make. Are you going to complain or are you going to find something to be thankful for?
Sometimes it can be really difficult to think of things you’re grateful for. Even in those times, there is one thing you can always thank God for: the answer that is coming. In the middle of the storm, even if it seems as if you’re going to lose it all, you can thank God in advance for what He is going to do.
God’s promises are true no matter what your situation. He promised you health, peace, protection and prosperity. Even if you are given a terrible diagnosis, you can thank Him that you are healthy and whole. If you’re on the verge of bankruptcy, you can still thank Him in advance for giving you the wisdom and answers you need.
Don’t thank God for the trouble. After all, our verse today doesn’t say, “Be thankful FOR all circumstances.” God doesn’t cause the pain in your life, so it doesn’t make sense to thank Him for it. However, you can always find things to thank Him for.
The worst thing you can do in the middle of a storm is to keep quiet. Find a place—maybe it’s in your car or in your bedroom— and put on your favourite Christian worship music. Crank it up to drown out every negative thought you have. As you worship Him, just watch as the miraculous power of God begins to change your circumstances.