Giving Thanks When You Are Hurting

Thanksgiving is tomorrow. Everywhere we look, we see reminders that this is a time to be grateful. The words gratitude, blessed, and thankful are everywhere. But what if we

don't feel blessed? What if our hearts are in the midst of a devastating heartbreak? Is it still possible to be grateful?

That was a massive question for me after our daughter Nicole passed away. I didn't feel blessed or like being thankful much of the time. However, I soon realized that there is always something to be grateful for. Sometimes we have to dig deep, but there are blessings to be found.

"When I am grateful and choose to count my blessings, it begins to push out the anxiety to which I have become accustomed. The longer I've entertained anxiety and worry, the more I have to push through and think about my blessings. I may have to say them out loud, write them down, or review them in my mind. But eventually, thankfulness pushes out anxiety and ushers in peace. Gratitude anchors my spirit to the present. 1 Thessalonians 5:18, "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." There is always something to be grateful for. In Ann Voscamp's book One Thousand Gifts, she wrote, 'Thanksgiving is necessary to live the well, whole, fullest life."

Some days it may be harder than others to identify something to be grateful for. When I am in one of those times, I bring it down to the simplest of terms. The way the sun feels on my shoulders or the shelter of my home are wonderful examples of simple things. However, as Christ followers, even on our darkest days, we have the assurance this is not all there is, and He has rescued and saved us. What greater cause for gratitude is there?"

Victorious Heart

Sweet friends, when it seems like the rest of the world, is celebrating while we are hurting, let's look for blessings. Let's slow down and ponder what we can give thanks for. I venture to say that once we've begun, the list will grow, and our hearts will feel comfort.