The Power of Practicing Thankfulness

While Gail is recovering from her hip replacement, some of Gail's friends will be sharing several times a week. 

Guest post by Rosilind Jukic*

I sat in my chair, staring into nothingness. The question “what if?” plagued me as I tried to grapple with our son’s diagnosis of high-functioning autism, dysgraphia, and dyslexia. I was struggling with thoughts of what our son’s future might look like. With no easy answers, God felt distant.

What do I do when the bottom falls out of life and my pat answers ring hollow? 

In that moment, I knew I had two choices: I could descend into despair or allow God to take me on a journey of greater trust in Him. I had faith in big things, but when it hit close to home, I didn’t want to give up control. 

Little did I know that my decision that day would change both my son’s and my future! Paul says in Philippians 4:6, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” 

When Paul said, “nothing”, he meant nothing. Worry is a denial of God’s character and name. Either He is almighty and sovereign or He isn’t. 

As I began to daily practice thanksgiving, my trust in God grew deeper and my focus shifted from our problems to God’s nature. And I was able to leave my son’s future in God’s hands. 

If you’re struggling to trust God today, as you pray daily, practice thanksgiving and affirm God’s character and nature. And then watch as your trust in Him grows deeper and stronger.

💙💙💙 

For more insights, see Don't Underestimate the Power of Gratitude and Gratitude Attitude.

* Rosilind is an American missionary to Croatia. I met Roz online as a fellow blogger, but I've been blessed to also meet with her in Zagreb, Croatia, close to where she and her family live. She's the author of A Little R & R. Her latest book is called The Power of a Thankful Heart. Learn more about it here. Read an excerpt from her book here.

BLN