In All Circumstances

"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

But what if I do not want to give thanks in all my circumstances? God can see the pain and struggle I am going through right now, why would I want to be thankful for that?

I have learned in life that as soon as one bad circumstance comes to a close, another opens. You fail a class, total your car, laid off from your job, someone dies, etc. Life can stink so bad that you do not want to get out of bed and face the world. I've been there, you've been there, we all have been there.

Okay, but how does that help with my current situation?

As awkward as talking to someone that isn't physically there with you, he is there spiritually. At first, it can feel like you are just talking to yourself like nobody is listening. As a new Christian and just beginning your relationship with God it can feel like that. But as you grow closer and learn to lean on him, it feels more like you are talking to your best friend, but he is better than that. Humans are great to talk to, do not get me wrong on the importance of an accountability partner, but God is something extra special. He is the person you can tell everything to, the good, bad and ugly, and he will still forgive you (shoutout to Jesus).

What else? How does talking about my problems to him help? What will he do for me, to help me?

Being a Christian means God has a will for your life. "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. " Jeremiah 29:11. God cares and loves you more than you could ever imagine. What you are going through right now is a part of God's Will for your life. I know what you are thinking, why would God use something painful to be a part of his plan. "Jesus replied, 'You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand." John 13:7.

Becoming a Christian does not get rid of all of life's bad circumstances, but it does give you God's hand and assurance.