Giving Thanks When Nothing Seems Right

Giving thanks when nothing seems right is the challenge we all face this Thanksgiving. Deep in the throes of the COVID-19 surge, we must choose to forego some traditions but our hearts are free.

 

 

 

 

Giving Thanks When Nothing Seems Right

A 2MefromHim Devotional

…Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9

Giving thanks when nothing in life is as it should be is the challenge we all face this Thanksgiving. Deep in the throes of the COVID-19 surge, we must choose to forego some traditions but our hearts are free. It’s easy to be confused and out of sorts about how to respond to invitations, whether or not to be around loved ones, and sad about family members who will be alone. The government intrudes into our personal lives like never before.

Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure...think about such things. Philippians 4:8 #praise #good #Thanksgiving2020 Share on X

Giving Thanks Because God Has a Purpose

Look to the Scriptures when nothing seems right. Paul and Joseph are wonderful examples of thanking God during their times in prison. I need to emulate their attitudes, believing God puts me in a time and place for His purpose. We see no recorded complaints from either man.

God puts me in a time and place for His purpose. #COVID #Godisgood #Thanksgiving Share on X

I am not alone. The entire world is imprisoned right now, held captive by a disease with no cure and a deadly impact on some who contract it. No one knows when or how it will come under control. It separates us from loved ones, changes every aspect of our lives, and damages the economy. Education, jobs, travel, and medical procedures all are made subject to COVID.

Give Thanks Because God Provides the Strength

Reading further in his Philippian letter, Paul continues with his insights into being restricted in your daily life and freedom. He says, “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

One thing is certain, God is in control. #COVID-19 #Godislove #hope Share on X

There’s a source of gratitude in that verse. I don’t have to do this alone. God allowed this situation, and no one knows exactly where He’s going with it. But one thing is certain, God is in control. I don’t possess the strength to deal with all of the trials and struggles of this rapid turnover in our lifestyle but I know the One who does have that strength.

I can do all things through the strength of God.

Giving Thanks Because God Will Meet My Needs

Paul wrote offered some advice in Philippians 4 that can help me during the holidays, attitudes and actions that can lift my spirits while reaching out to others. Perhaps they will help you too!

• Do not be anxious about anything
• In everything, with prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God
• God’s peace will transcend your heart and mind as you do this. Look for it!
• Rejoice in the Lord always
• Let your gentleness be evident to all – don’t we need gentleness right now!
• Concentrate on the list in verses 8 & 9
• Remember that it’s good to share in the troubles of others. What can you do for someone else?
• Put into practice everything you have learned from the Lord
• Pray these things for yourself and others
• Learn to be content whatever your circumstances
• Learn to meet each days’ needs by leaning on the Lord’s strength
• Share the burdens of those around you
• Look for the good in others and recognize them for what they do
• Remember that all the glorious riches in Christ Jesus are at your disposal

Philippians 4 can help me during the holidays, and lift my spirits while reaching out to others. #Godisgood #Thanksgiving2020 #charity Share on X

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

 

© Norma Gail Holtman, November 23, 2020

About the author:

Norma Gail writes Fiction to Refresh Your Spirit. Her contemporary novels, Land of My Dreams, which won the 2016 Bookvana Religious Fiction Award, and Within Golden Bands (released May 19, 2020), explore the theme of women whose faith triumphs over trials. A women’s Bible study leader for over 21 years, her devotionals and poetry have appeared at ChristianDevotions.us, the Stitches Thru Time blog, Inspire a Fire, and in “The Secret Place.” She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Historical Writers of America, and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. Norma is a former RN who lives in the mountains of New Mexico with her husband of 44 years. They have two adult children. To connect with her, you can follow her blog, or join her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, BookBub, or Amazon.