Once there was a wealthy man. He seems to have it all until one day, almost everything that he worked for was gone. He lost his wealth, possession, the respect of other people, and most importantly, his family.
In the midst of all these troubles, he has the courage and confidence to exclaim:
“Naked I came from my mother’s womb,
And naked shall I return there.
The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away;
Blessed be the name of the Lord.”
He further says, “Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?”
By this time, you probably know whom I’m talking to – Job.
Do you know how Job, after losing everything almost overnight, has the ability to stay faithful and “not sin with his lips” throughout this terrible trial?
Let me tell you one of the reasons: it’s gratitude!
You see, it’s easy to be grateful when things are going according to our plans. The challenge is when things are going out of hand and it seems that the world comes crashing down on you.
When life gets tough, do you still practice the admonition of the Apostle Paul in I Thessalonians 5:18?
“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
Well, you better be because it is the WILL OF GOD in your life!
Not only that, but James (or properly known as Jacob) added:
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience” (James 1:2-3).
Part of being joyful in the midst of trials is to be thankful!
It might be tough to take a different perspective during the darkest time of our lives. However, things won’t get any better if you stay sad, depressed, and discouraged.
This post originally appeared on BecomingChristians.com and was republished with permission. The article was written by Joshua Infantado.
Joshua’s Outpost is a source for men to find encouragement to be bold in their faith and walk with Jesus Christ.
Gratitude is so crucial!