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In Everything, Give Thanks


My dad was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer last week. Suddenly, our lives are going to be very different. While my head knows the Lord’s promises, and I can say yeah, God will use this for His glory somehow, my heart has been avoiding Him- except to fling questions at Him. Why my dad, God? He’s always tried to serve You and teach us to do the same. He hasn’t done any of the common things that people blame cancer on. Why him?

This morning, I decided I’d just skip my Bible time because I really just didn’t want to talk to God today. So I read my mindless fiction book instead… And about two pages in, the bishop in the book was preaching a sermon on Paul’s instructions to give thanks in all circumstances. Blast. I suppose the “you can run but you can’t hide” statement is never more accurate than when we’re talking about God. At least God got my attention while reading a harmless book and I didn’t have to spend time in a whale’s stomach. 

So this morning, I’m making a list of things I’m thankful for in this situation.

+I’m thankful my job away is temporary and I can go home in a month.

+My sister was supposed to leave for Africa for 6 months next week, and because of the Ebola crisis flights aren’t even going in to where she was going. *Don't hear what I'm not saying* I ache for the people of Africa as they are losing mothers and fathers and sisters and brothers to the virus, but I’m thankful that my sister didn’t have to agonize about whether to go or stay now.

+I’m thankful for my uncle and aunt who immediately volunteered a week of their vacation time to come up in a few weeks and help us do all of the winter prep things dad always directed. 

+I’m thankful for a wonderful family of believers who are praying, encouraging, and just jumping in to help when they see a need.

+I'm thankful for a relationship with a God who has proven himself faithful and true to his promises throughout all time. I know he will continue to do so.

 “Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

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