Here is a thought: What if we really gave thanks in all circumstances? Just like it says in 1 Thessalonians 5:18. For the last few years, I have been working on being thankful every single day. It keeps me in the right perspective.
It is not possible to be negative and thankful at the same time. Science has even proven this. When you begin to be thankful, anxiety has to leave. When we choose to give thanks to God for the blessings, we make room for more of His presence.
It is like Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God’s peace (shall be yours, that tranquil state of a should assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace) which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
When I choose to be thankful, anxiety has to go. When I choose to be thankful I have seen hard days become holy days. Yes, life has storms but this is when we should be more thankful! I have to make a decision to focus on God’s faithfulness and goodness. His joy will give you strength, His Word will refresh and direct you, and His love with sustain you.
Here are just a few things I am thankful for:
God’s unconditional love, my family, my church, the honor of sharing His Good News, health, running water, bathrooms, A/C and the list goes on and on….
Start looking around and out loud saying what you are thankful for. Take a few moments right now to thank God for His goodness, love and faithfulness. Then thank Him for a couple things in your life that you’re grateful for—whether it’s your family, your career, or even your cup of coffee in the morning. You can make a habit of being thankful!
Allison Bramlett 