Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV 1984)
I've read the scripture, I've recited the scripture and I've ummmmm failed at believing the scripture!
I'm supposed to give thanks in ALL circumstances? ALL? I mean every circumstance? Say what? But God you don't realize that a lot of my circumstances are very difficult..Yes, Shawna, I do!
I'm supposed to be thankful that my son Devin has Mitochondrial disease? That my son Brandon has bone/hip diseases? Not to mention any of my medical illnesses? Shawna, be thankful that I'm a great healer!
I'm supposed to be thankful for a painful relationship that ended? Yes, I'm molding you and preparing you for great things...you are my child and I have great plans for you! I'm also molding your husband that I'm preparing for you, Don't go out of my will and my timing.
I'm supposed to be thankful that my kids put the clothes ON the hamper and not IN the hamper? Yes, Shawna, you are blessed with a home and children.
I'm supposed to be thankful for hitting a pole and wrecking my car? Yes, Shawna, you are blessed with a car.
I really could go on and on, thankful when the dog leaves a nice big present right in my walkway? when I leave my leftovers in the car all weekend and the car smells baaddd? when my feelings are hurt? when I'm exhausted in the morning and would do anything not to go to work? when I'm running to work at 10:30 at night to print a report for my son that is due the NEXT morning? (nothing like kids waiting until the night before, right?) when I don't know how my finances will work that month being a single mom? when I feel lonely? when I feel overwhelmed? when....when....when....I mean, couldn't we all just keep on going??? BTW- God answered those questions too.
Yes, Shawna, give thanks in ALL circumstances! WOW God, Can I ever live up to your expectations?
I'm so thankful this Thanksgiving! I'm thankful that I have 3 amazing children that know You Lord! I am thankful for my family and friends and so thankful for the struggles in my life. They've brought me closer to God, they've made me go before the throne and admit that I'm nothing without Him and that I cannot do anything without my Lord who gives me strength.
Hope that you all have a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
