Gratitude in the Trials

As I walk the narrow path with Jesus, I can feel the wind at my back—the Spirit's pull leading me toward Divine Appointments. There are always new brothers and sisters to meet, new opportunities to shine His light among those who are seeking.

When I’m healthy, happy, and focused, it feels like God can use me to move mountains… at least small ones.

And during those times, it’s easy to be grateful.

It’s natural to give God the glory when everything is going well.

But what about the times when it’s not?

What about the trials?

When a common cold lingers… when the body is worn down… the mind and emotions are blown…when the “warm and fuzzy” feelings toward God seem cold and prickly. Do I still thank Him?

Or does my gratitude become selective… conditional… tied to health, comfort, and ease?

As I think about this question, I realize I’m no different than most.

I’ve offered conditional gratitude more times than I’d like to admit.

And if that’s true, then I want to say something different today.

Right now.

Lord, I thank You… even for the trials.

In my daily Scripture memory, I often return to Psalm 139:23–24:

“Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Try me, and know my anxieties…”

It’s an invitation for the trials of life.

Not always for comfort… but also for testing my faith.

Not because I enjoy the trial, but because I trust the One who allows it.

Maybe what I perceive as suffering is, in some way, a form of His blessing.

A way of shaping and aligning me…drawing me closer to Him.

So today, despite how I feel, I choose to be grateful, because He is always good.

And I pray that you—wherever you are on your walk—will join me in giving thanks to Him today.

No matter the circumstances.

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“Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23–24 (NKJV)