4 January 2025: Gratitude

1 Thessalonians 5:18
"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."

It’s easy to be grateful when everything is going well—when we receive good news, when doors open, when prayers are answered exactly as we hoped. But what about the days when life feels overwhelming? What about the moments when nothing seems to be going right? Can we still find reasons to give thanks?

I remember a particular January when I felt stuck in life. I was focused on everything I lacked—more money, better opportunities, a clearer future. Everywhere I turned, I saw disappointment. My prayers felt unanswered, my dreams seemed distant, and my heart grew weary. One evening, as I poured my frustrations out to God, I felt a gentle nudge in my spirit: What if you stopped focusing on what you don’t have and started thanking Me for what you do have?

At first, it felt almost impossible. How could I be thankful when I was struggling? But I decided to try. I challenged myself to write down five things I was grateful for every day. Some days, the list was easy: a warm bed, a good meal, the love of family. On other days, I had to search harder—thanking God for strength to get through the day, for the lessons I was learning, and for His presence even in my pain.

Within weeks, something shifted. My circumstances didn’t change overnight, but my heart did. Gratitude opened my eyes to how much God had already blessed me. I saw His faithfulness in the little things. I realized that even in difficulty, there were glimpses of His grace.

Gratitude is powerful. It doesn’t always change our situation, but it changes us. When we intentionally thank God, even in the hard seasons, we invite His peace into our hearts. We remind ourselves that He is still good, still present, still working all things together for our good.

As you move through this month, take a moment each day to reflect on God’s goodness. Even if life isn’t perfect, even if you’re still waiting for answers, find something to be thankful for. Because gratitude isn’t about having everything—it’s about recognizing the blessings that are already there.

Lord, open my eyes to Your goodness in every season. Help me to focus on what I have instead of what I lack. May I always have a heart that chooses gratitude, no matter my circumstances. Amen.