Thankfulness

(Original appeared May 13, 2016)

I wanted to add the following Bible passage to that last entry but could not think of it. After some searching, I rediscovered it. This passage means so much to us especially when times get rough. Those rough times seems to expose us to the temptation to get down on ourselves, to become angry with our circumstances, or to lash out toward our loved ones. But we take heart that if we focus on our blessings – on the good stuff – life is much easier to bear and our relationship with the creator of the universe and the author of our salvation becomes far more sound and gratifying.

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:4‭-‬9