1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NLT), “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”

Being grateful is easy when life is going well, when prayers are being answered, relationships are flourishing, and financial provision is flowing. However, when trials or difficulties challenge the flow of God’s blessing in our lives, being thankful becomes a deliberate choice, not an easy response. How do we even give thanks when disappointment, loss, or uncertainty loom over us? The truth of the matter is a thankful disposition in the presence of trouble becomes a weapon against the very trouble we face. To quote Kenneth Copeland, “When you pray, you lay hold of things; when you praise - you win battles!” In other words, we partake of the victory we already possess in Christ, when we praise the Lord and remain thankful to Him, even before we see it manifest in the natural realm. Which is why Paul teaches us that thanksgiving is not just for the good times; it’s for every season of life. Did you notice that God calls us to be thankful in everything, not for everything. This means that even in hardship, we can trust that He is working for our good when we love Him and do His will (Romans 8:28). 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says being thankful in all circumstances is His will for us! Praise literally shifts our focus from our problems onto God’s faithfulness! It magnifies Him and what His Word says about the power and authority He has given us - to stand our ground in faith and overcome all things. This strengthens our faith and deepens our joy. When we thank God in all circumstances, we acknowledge the flow of His life and power in us, and we invite His peace and practical wisdom to flood our minds. As we act on His supernatural wisdom, we receive supernatural results! Today, take a moment to thank God, not just for His blessing, but for our ability to victoriously overcome every trial through the flow of His glorious Presence that abides in us. As we cultivate a heart of gratitude, we align ourselves with His power and experience the joy that comes from trusting Him and working with Him to triumph!