1 Thessalonians 5:18 states we should “give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you.”
Notice it doesn’t say we should give thanks for all things but in all things; and there is a difference. Even in the midst of evil, we can see God’s will played out in our lives.
God has a plan for us and will be faithful to us if we will submit to his authority.
As I look back in my life, I am thankful for my parents, who, even though they were not perfect, taught me godly values that have helped frame my life. They taught me that lying, cheating and stealing were wrong. They taught me that loving God and my fellow man were the most important virtues of life.
I am thankful for the local church down the road from my house where I was taught that Jesus loved me and wanted to forgive me and lead me through this world of uncertainties.
I am thankful for a God who entrusted me with a calling to be a minister of the gospel; it is in the small local church where I sensed it.
I am thankful for the teachers at church, as well as those in school, who encouraged me along the way.
I am thankful for a faithful Christian wife who has been supportive of my calling these past 34 years.
I am thankful for my three children, who all are presently following Christ and who are actively serving in the church. I am thankful for my grandchildren, who love me and want to follow in my steps in obeying the Lord.
I am thankful for the members at New Beginnings, who put up with me and love me unconditionally. I could go on and on about God’s faithfulness to me.
After thinking and writing about these things, I feel like I am one of the wealthiest men in the world – and for it all, I am thankful.