Monday, June 13, 2011

Thanks In the Hard Times

Some days it is hard to give thanks. It just is. Several days ago I had a great Gratitude Post all planned - cute pictures of little critters coming to the birdbath for a drink, grace-filled moments added to the list. But today I don't feel very much like downloading those pictures or writing out the list. Someone I love dearly is hurting, and words of thanks come hard. I confess it; they come hard.

I am learning the benefit of writing scripture on the heart. I haven't searched for verses, but the ones I've stored up come to mind. The words live; they minister.

"Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
I Thess. 5:18

"Do not fear for I am with you, do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you; surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."
Is. 41:10

"You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You."
Is. 26:3

"Ah Lord God, behold, Thou has made the heavens and the earth by Thy great power and Thine outstretched arm. Nothing is too difficult for Thee."
Jer. 32:17

"Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You. Show me the way I should go, for to You I lift up my soul."
Ps. 143:8

"Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty."
Ps. 91:1

"And in those days when you pray I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly you will find Me."
Jer. 29:12,13

"Come to Me all who are weary and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble of heart and you shall find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My load is light."
Matt 11:28-30

More than mere words, they live and breath and move. And more than my words, which are small and weak, can ever rightly express - it is true. These breathing words speak into a troubled heart and change everything. Feelings give way to truth, and truth makes a heart grateful.

I am thankful, that when circumstances seem to overwhelm, He proves Himself faithful - over and over and over again. He speaks and the darkness gives way to light, the burden is lifted and the enemy has to leave.

joining my grateful heart with others at Ann's

Blessings,
Linda