This is part 1 of a 3-part series in biblical principles.
Why is gratitude so important? In 1 Thessalonians 5:18 we are instructed to give thanks in all circumstances.
It’s easy to be thankful when things are going our way, but what about when we experience tragedy, loss, disappointment, grief, and heartache? What about the dysfunctional relationships, failures, unexpected health problems, job loss, debt?
Before I renewed my faith I used to feel a lot of resentment towards my family. I blamed them for the dysfunctional patterns in my own life, rather than taking responsibility for my own actions and the resulting consequences of my decisions. I didn’t see what a gift it was to be tested. What causes us to stretch and grow is not to succumb to an easy way of life.
Every tragedy, every disappointment, and every setback grows our character.
Each time things didn’t go my way, it grew my persistence and patience. Every failed relationship showed me what communication skills I need to learn to grow. When I experienced financial loss and struggle, it helped me to become more intentional with stewardship and learn what it really means to be generous to others and unselfish. What I’ve found is that growth and learning happen exponentially through failure, which propels you forward faster than when life is going well. While I’m so grateful for the many blessings in my life, I also realize the depth of that gratefulness is because of the pain and suffering that brings perspective on what I have to be grateful for.
Instead of wishing for less problems, ask God to give you to grow the character traits you need to overcome them. There will be times when you will need to lean on God to support you through because things are too tough, and there is nothing wrong with crying out to Him for comfort through grief. But don’t abandon your hope when things seem bleak. Sometimes God shields us from even bigger pain that we don’t have the perspective to see.
