Partners
In Hope

Gratitude For Hard Times

Friday September 17, 2021
 

As some of us consider the history of our lives – whether before, during, or after active addiction – gratitude might not be the first response in our hearts.  Each season of our lives has pain, often shame, and a real desire to avoid and just “not go there ever again” emotions.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.  (James 1:2-4 NIV)

Fortunately, we do not always live under the pressure of trials and temptations.  God has called us to peace and God wants to fill our minds and hearts with peace today. 

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.  And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:15-17 NIV)

God will speak directly to us through His Word, through His Holy Spirit, and through the encouragement of others.  Are we listening?  Are we open to seeing what we have to be grateful? Are we setting our hearts in the peace of God’s faithfulness to us during the hard times and lessons learned?

How have we learned to persevere through the experiences we have had?  What experience, strength, and hope do we now have to share with someone who is new to recovery?  How has God filled our lives with good things even after the destruction we brought about on ourselves and others through our words and actions?

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your faithful love that has brought me through many trials and temptations to this moment.  My desire is to be mature and complete, lacking nothing.  Help me to keep my eyes fixed on You and Your goodness, and with a grateful heart enjoy this day You have given me.  Amen

©2021 Partners in Hope 

Audio for Gratitude For Hard Times

Recent Meditations

OLD GROWTH GOODNESS
March 31, 2025
ANGER
March 30, 2025
DISCOVERING TRUTH
March 29, 2025
AFFIRMED AND ACCOMPANIED BY A LOVING GOD
March 28, 2025
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
March 27, 2025
See all

Giving Hope

Partners in Hope is supported wholly by our friends and community. We are thankful to everyone who partners with us to help bring hope to the discouraged, hurting, and hopeless.