Focus on the Good

Practicing Gratitude on Youversion

It’s easy to notice the good around you when things are going well. It can be harder to practice gratitude when things go poorly.

And yet, that’s exactly when you need to connect with God. When life is tough, you need God more than ever.

give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV

How can you give thanks when things are hard? It may take venting your hurt or frustration to God before you can get to gratitude. 

Jesus himself suffered. If you’re suffering, start there with Jesus. Then ask God what you can be grateful for. 

You may find many good things springing to mind. Even the thought that Jesus sees you and cares for you can be encouraging. 

When the prophet Jonah was having a terrible day at work, he found gratitude by looking at God’s provision through the physical environment.

Now the Lord God appointed a plant and made it come up over Jonah, that it might be a shade over his head, to save him from his discomfort. So Jonah was exceedingly glad because of the plant.

Jonah 4:6 ESV

God made a bush for shade and Jonah was very happy about the bush.

Practice: 

• Think about a current hardship you face. Tell God truthfully how you feel about it. Share every lament and complaint. 
• Ask yourself: is there anything I can be grateful for in this circumstance? 
• Notice anything in your natural environment that feels like a gift from God.
• Anytime you feel your shoulders sink today, ask Jesus to share in your suffering. Then ask: is there anything I can be grateful for? What has God done here that’s good?

Prayer: God, you know my heart. Thank you for hearing my suffering. Help me thank you in all circumstances.