Gratitude In Difficulty

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,  give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

We used to define rejoicing as happy times. Times when everything seems smooth, and things go the way we want it. On the other hand, it’s unfamiliar to rejoice amidst trouble, to pray when it seems unheard, and to give thanks even in lack and difficulty.

In today’s scripture, we are encouraged to embrace rejoicing in both the good and bad times, to pray continually and give to give thanks in joy and in sorrow , for this is the will of the Lord for us – to endure hardships, for it will bear the fruit of Christlikeness in our lives, carrying our own crosses everyday with the purest joy and thanksgiving in our hearts, knowing that our suffering is nothing compared to the joy that awaits in eternity. This is what will make us stand out, what will others question – that in the face of difficulties, to live in gratefulness while we wait for the Lord, a fruit bearing life of becoming like Jesus, is His ultimate will, and we share this hope to the world.