For years, there have been things in the past that when I talk about ‘giving thanks in all things’ I clarify, when I am being super transparent, that I am just not sure I can bring myself to thank God in/for them.
I always feel a bit of a ‘ping’ when I do this, but some things wreaked so much havoc in our lives. The depth of the trauma so deep and so painful, I’ve teetered on giving thanks for those situations.
I would sort of waffle on that fine line of accepting the things that happened and actually trusting my Father enough to thank Him in all things.
I feel like I was able to forgive those involved. I thought I totally accepted the situation, but did I really? I recently heard myself say again, ‘I just don’t know if I can “thank” Him for that’. ( I know it was not actually from His hand, but the enemy’s hand, but God allowed it) As I said it, something just didn’t feel right. Why don’t I thank Him? Do I not trust Him to the uttermost? There was unrest in my soul over it, but I felt closer than ever to saying, ‘Thank You’.
Today, reading a quote from Ann’s One Thousand Gifts Devotional
{That which I refuse to thank Christ for, I refuse to believe Christ can redeem.}
Is that what my refusal to thank Him for says? That I don’t believe He can redeem it? Whoa! If this is true, and I believe it just might be, well, it feels like a dagger to my heart. Of course I believe my Jesus can redeem all things. When I see what He has done in my life . . . are you kidding me?
I have repented for having unforgiveness towards my Father, for accusing Him, for not trusting Him. I have thanked Him for every.single. painful circumstance in my life. Sweet freedom and refreshment comes!
Have you been able to thank Him in ALL things?? I mean ALL things? It’s hard, isn’t it? I know. It’s called radical obedience. His Word says to ‘give thanks in all things’. Notice it says “ALL”. Praying for you.
3 comments:
Great, thought invoking post, Michelle. ♥ I am slooowwwly learning to give thanks in ALL circumstances. I've been in quite a few with my mom's illness that I think "WHY, Lord...? Why did this have to happen to her?" But I attempted to give thanks for the tiniest of blessings in those situations. And as I look back on those not-so-wonderful events, I see the God-moments in them and realize that He always knows what is best for us and all things DO work out for His glory. ♥
xoox laurie
This is hard to do! Thanking Him for what He allowed into our lives. But over a year out of the situation, I am stronger. The abuse empowered me, strengthened my faith, and the role that I was forced into as financial head of our home actually prepared me for this present time. I, as you, am a strong woman, not tough, but strong. Some times I am fragile, but I know that God is filling in the weak places with His love, still has me on His wheel, molding me. Yes, I have thanked Him. It prepared me and strengthened my faith in His power. Thank you for this powerful post! Love ya!!
Just found your site. Thanks for the encouragement!
Post a Comment