Finding Thankfulness in Difficult Seasons

Life often brings challenges that feel overwhelming—loss, uncertainty, financial strain, broken relationships. In these moments, gratitude can feel impossible. Yet Scripture calls us to:
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Notice it says IN ALL circumstances, not FOR ALL circumstances. God doesn’t ask us to be thankful for the pain and suffering, but to trust Him in the midst of it. Romans 5:3 tells us that, “…but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. “

Thankfulness during trials is not about ignoring reality; it’s about anchoring our hearts in God’s character. When we choose gratitude, we declare that His goodness is greater than our hardship. Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have—His presence, His promises, His peace.

From a personal perspective, my wife of 34 years was diagnosed with Primary Lateral Stenosis (PLS) in December of 2023 with symptoms likely first noticed in 2020. PLS is a slower developing form of ALS, better known as Lou Gherig’s Disease. It is a very debilitating disease with no cure. As of this writing she has no use of her upper extremities and is slowly getting weaker in the lower extremities. It is difficult for her to go through this, but it is also difficult to watch someone you love becoming less of the person physically than who she was just a few short years ago. We have good days and bad days, but what truly gets us through day to day is our trust and faith in God, and we are grateful for each day He gives us to be together despite the difficulties with her disease.

Why Gratitude Matters in Hard Times

• It reminds us of God’s sovereignty.

                “The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.”   
                 (Psalm 103:19)

• It guards our hearts against bitterness.

                “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”  (Proverbs 4:23)

• It opens the door for joy.

                “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”  (Philippians 4:4)

When we choose gratitude, we declare that His goodness is greater than our hardship. Gratitude is not denial, it’s a declaration of faith.

Practical Ways to Cultivate Gratitude
      1. Start Small: Thank God for one thing today, your breath, His Word, a friend.          
​          “Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.” (Psalm 150:6)

     2. Speak It Out: Verbalize your gratitude in prayer or write it down in a journal.
        “I will give thanks to you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” (Psalm 9:1)

     3. Look for God’s Hand: Ask, “Where do I see God working in this situation?”
        “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” (Romans 8:28)

     4. Anchor in Scripture: Meditate on verses like Philippians 4:6-7 and Psalm 100:4.
       “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with
        thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

      “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his                  name.” (Psalm 100:4)

Gratitude Challenge
For the next 7 days, write down three things you’re thankful for each day, even if they seem small. At the end of the week, reflect on how this practice has shifted your perspective.