09/17/2024
Good morning!
I’m sure many of you can relate to going through tough seasons in life. It’s a concept that’s even mentioned in the Bible, in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8: “To everything, there is a season...” God allows us to experience these different seasons for a greater purpose.
While we might know this in our hearts, I think we all sometimes feel the urge to just get through the difficult times as quickly as possible.
A friend of mine always says, “Thank you, Jesus,” no matter what is happening—whether it’s good or bad. For the longest time, I didn’t understand it. Do we really need to say “thank you” for the things we don’t like? After reflecting on it, I’ve realized the answer is a resounding YES!
To be honest, there have been moments when I’ve said “thank you, Jesus” out of obedience, even when my heart wasn’t fully on board. But over time, I’ve learned that gratitude can transform how we go through tough seasons.
Sometimes it seems like I’m barely putting out one fire before another pops up. I’ve caught myself thinking, "Is this just the way life is, with one challenge after another?" Then, I remember how many people are going through unimaginable hardships. It helps me put my own struggles in perspective. But even then, I remind myself it’s okay to have feelings about my own challenges, and I don’t need to feel guilty about that.
I’m learning to face each day with a grateful heart, understanding that without difficult seasons, we might lose sight of our need for God. Philippians 4:13, my life verse, says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This has reminded me to be thankful for all seasons, even the hard ones, and to look for God’s bigger purpose in them.
I’m definitely a work in progress, but I know that’s enough as long as my heart seeks His will. Lately, I’ve been starting each morning by listening to this playlist that lifts me up and sets the tone for my day. It’s harder to have a bad day when we begin it the right way!
Here’s the playlist if you’d like to check it out. And if you have any song suggestions, drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear them.
https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/i-am-blessed/pl.u-b3b8RmNhy5r1Da
Playlist · 9 Songs