Philippians 1:3 “I thank my God every time I remember you.”
What a great example Paul set for us! Talk about finding good in the bad. He was in prison. Things couldn’t get much worse. There wasn’t much Paul could give thanks for in his current circumstance. So he looked inside and pulled out good memories. He remembered people he loved, and he thanked God.
How many times do we get so caught up in our current bad situations that we forget how good God has been? Our Heavenly Father has shown His love to us in countless ways, and has given us the ability to remember all the wonderful things He has done for us. He’s given us food and shelter. He’s surrounded us with people to love. And, no matter how bad things get, most of us can pull up at least one good, positive, praiseworthy memory.
When we find ourselves in circumstances beyond our control, circumstances that make us angry or break our hearts, we should follow Paul’s example. Try to think of something that makes us smile, something for which we’re thankful.
Think of the last time you laughed until you cried. Think of your first kiss or your first car or your first paycheck, before you had any real bills to pay. Think of making mud pies with your friends, or the trophy your team won . . . or better yet, the pizza party after the trophy presentation. Then, give thanks to God for His eternal goodness.
Go ahead . . . think of something right now.
There. I’ll bet you feel better already.
Dear Father, Thank You for all of the good things You’ve given me in my lifetime. Help me to remember those things when my circumstances are difficult.
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