Choosing to be Thankful

Gratitude in the Hard Times

Betrayal. Disability. Loneliness. Death. In my new release Lost in Darkness, a lot of these hard issues are explored. But when things like these go on in your life—and they will—how can you possibly be grateful?

Sometimes it’s not only hard to be grateful, it’s nearly impossible. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says to give thanks in all circumstances. Yeah, maybe if you’re a saint you can do that, but really? Does God truly expect every one of us to give thanks even in the ugly times?

Yes, actually, He does.

I know. I know. That sounds crazy and downright cruel. Smacking of heavenly arrogance, even. The thing is, though, that God always commands things for a reason, and the reason you should be thankful even in tough circumstances has more to do with you than with Him. Wallowing in self-pity or anger affects you physically in detrimental ways, but by being grateful for even the smallest things can actually increase your overall happiness by 25% (according to a study by University of California Psychology Professor Dr. Robert Emmons). But where do you begin to even think about being grateful when your world is upside down and backwards?

5 Ways to be Grateful

It’s the Little Things
A warm breeze. The sun on your face. The color green or the chirp of a bird. Look for the smallest things that you can truly be thankful for—which are actually building blocks to noticing bigger things for which you can be grateful.

Look Outward
Yes, your life might be in the trash can right now but no matter what there’s always someone else you can help. Taking your eyes off your own problems to focus on serving another human in need has a way of giving you a little space and break from your issues.

Quit Complaining
Set a goal for 24 hours—just one single day—in which you won’t complain. If you fail, simply start the timer over again and give it another shot.

Self Care
It’s hard to be thankful if you’re hungry or tired or in pain all the time. Lighten your load a little by catching a nap or making it a point to eat healthy or even just splurge on a candle to light up the darkness. If you feel better physically you’ll feel better emotionally.

Ask for Help
Sometimes we really do get stuck in a pit of despair. That’s when it’s time to call out the big guns. Bend a knee and ask God to change your attitude. Reach out to someone else and tell them you’re struggling.

This Thanksgiving, whether you’re surrounded by friends and family or are on your own, make it a point to take a moment and be thankful for just one thing.