give thanks in all circumstances

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Gratitude has been a struggle for me this fall.  The circumstances are overwhelming, and I know many people with much harder circumstances right now.  This morning, my pastor read these verses and then he said again, "THIS IS GOD'S WILL FOR YOU!"  I had a light bulb moment...an aha, if you will.  I must choose to be joyful.  I must choose to pray continually.  I must choose in ALL circumstances to give thanks.

In all circumstances?  Are you serious, God?  Even in grief?  When my car is rear ended and in the shop indefinitely?  When my feelings are hurt?  When the bills keep coming?  When my to-do list is longer than the hours in my days?

His answer is YES!  In all circumstances!  Choose wisely!  I've been struggling all day.  I want to hang on to my feelings of hurt and anger and frustration...even though they make me miserable...and believe the lies that they speak to me.  That even sounds ridiculous to me when I write it.

Jesus said, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world."  (John 16:33)

Jesus knew we would face all kinds of trouble, but he also gave us the answer.  Rejoice always.  Pray continually.  Give thanks in all circumstances.  Forgive and let go of feelings.  This is His will for us and right now I choose obedience.  I choose an attitude of gratitude.  In every situation.