How Can I Thank God in Hard Times?
"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
There has probably never been anyone who suffered as a Christian more than a follower of Jesus named Paul. In 2 Corinthians 11:23-33, Paul tells about many of his hard times. Often he was put in prison for telling people about Jesus. He was beaten many times. He suffered in shipwrecks and was stranded on the open sea. He was attacked by bandits. He was falsely accused of wrongdoing. His life was constantly in danger. Toward the end of his life, Paul was chained in a cold, damp prison dungeon. Eventually, he would be put to death for being a Christian.
Did Paul complain or feel sorry for himself? No, he thanked God! In his dark prison cell, Paul wrote these words, "Rejoice in the Lord always" (Philip-pians 4:4). How could Paul rejoice? He knew that God was in control. He trusted in God no matter what.
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What about you? Are you thankful, even in hard times? Don't give in to grumbling and complaining or feeling sorry for yourself. Instead, be thankful. How? Remember all God has done for you. Thank Him that He is in control and He's there to help you.
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