In Everything Give Thanks

Bible Reading: Philippians 4:4-7

“What an awful day!” said Louisa after school. “Why do I have to have Mrs. Hilton for a teacher? She’s a grouch, and nobody likes her!”

“It sounds like this would be a good time to remind you of the verses we read for devotions this morning,” Mom said. “‘In everything give thanks,’ remember? Because Jesus saved us and is always with us, we can have an attitude of praise and thankfulness to God, no matter what situation we find ourselves in.”

“Yes, but…” Louisa looked doubtful. “It’s pretty hard to have an attitude of praise in Mrs. Hilton’s class.”

“It may be hard at times, but Jesus still wants us to thank Him and trust Him in hard situations,” Mom said. “He often uses them to teach us important lessons.”

“Oh, I’m sure I’ll learn lots of lessons there,” Louisa said. “Lessons like sit up straight, no talking during class, stay in your seats, blah, blah, blah!” She sighed. “I really don’t see how I can give thanks for being in Mrs. Hilton’s class. It’s just too much!” She collapsed into a chair with a loud huff.

Mom laughed. “Louisa, don’t be so dramatic. You’ll survive. But I think you’ll do a lot better in Mrs. Hilton’s class if you change your attitude. Instead of complaining and focusing on the negative, remember that Jesus loves Mrs. Hilton and wants you to show her His love. Treat her with respect, and look for nice things to say about her.”

“Nice things about her? I can’t think of any,” said Louisa.

“Ask Jesus to help you think of some,” suggested Mom. “Talk to Him about it, and thank Him for the opportunity He’s given you to learn something new and help you grow. Pray for Mrs. Hilton, and look for ways you can encourage her and show her kindness. I think if you do that instead of complaining and focusing on yourself, you’ll find it much easier to give thanks for being in her class.”

Louisa sighed. “I know you’re right, Mom,” she said after a moment. “And actually, she is pretty good at explaining math. I guess God knows I need help with that. I’ll ask Him to help me remember to be thankful and show Mrs. Hilton His love.” – Barbara J. Westberg

How About You?

Are you dealing with a hard situation right now? Are you struggling to get along with someone? It can be hard to have a thankful attitude in the midst of difficult circumstances, but when you remember all Jesus has done for you, you can give thanks in every situation. Thank Him and trust Him to use the difficulties you’re facing to help you grow and show others His love.

Today’s Key Verse:
1 Thessalonians 5:18 In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Today’s Key Thought:

Develop a thankful attitude