" giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:20 NKJV

One of the many things I love about the Apostle Paul is his gratitude to His Heavenly Father. Giving thanks for all things can be difficult. I don't think he means we have to be grateful for all things right away.

 It can be easier to thank God for the good we see come out of a bad situation. Not everything can be seen as good at the time. A car accident where someone dies isn't something we can thank God for initially. We might be able to see fruit come from the attitudes of those who grieve the loss of the loved one. 

Someone who has suffered such a great tragedy may not ever see one thing to thank God for. God is fine with it. He loves you right where you are. In the middle of the pain He wants to meet you.

God knows serious, hurtful things take place every day in our lives.Our friend Paul is speaking about worship in the verse before this. In the context of the chapter we see in giving thanks to God it comes from our sincere hearts.

Worship has to be sincere. Our giving of thanks is not right if it comes begrudgingly. No way does God want this! Truth is what God stands for. He knows our hearts and how to bring wholeness.

If you are walking through an emotional trauma don't despair. All of us have been in your shoes at one time or another. Life comes in cycles. The Spirit of God works in us to cause us to overcome. Usually we are in a trial, coming out of a trial, or healed from a trial.

It is how God makes us more like Him. If we don't allow Jesus into our stuff, we won't change. It is painful, but it brings health strength and life in the end. As much as I fuss about change I know I need it. No one likes the pain of change. help us Lord Jesus to see you in the trial. Amen.