“Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say rejoice.“ Philippians 4:4

 Personally, I find it is a lot easier to practice this verse when the sun is shining and life is, for the most part, as it should be.

 What about the days when we have dreams that are crushed, or we are struggling over incredibly hard news? 

 Have you ever been in a worship service when people enthusiastically sing, “This is the day the Lord has made - let us be glad and rejoice in it”? While everyone sings you struggle because of what you are going through.

 Frankly, finding something to be thankful for is, sometimes, a tall order. Yet I have discovered in the darkest times of my life that there are always things to rejoice in. The Lord never added a caveat that allows us days off. On the darkest days, God’s promises remain true and His presence with us is unchanged.  

 One thing I have learned to do that I would like to pass on to you is this; If you cannot think of one thing today to give thanks to God for, then ask Him. Simply ask God, “What can I say thank you for today?”

 The answer may surprise you for its simplicity and beauty. God helps us to become joyful people.  I found that in the act of giving thanks on these dark days, though it sometimes feels like a discipline, that practice becomes an opportunity to plant tiny seeds of hope in my own heart.

 Remember my friend, some truths in this life never change. The character of God does not change, and neither does His presence with us.  I am very grateful for this. This truth is the difference faith makes. When we have Jesus with us, we are never alone. No situation we are facing is too difficult for Him or without hope - never.

 There are some tears we shed that will never be entirely wiped away until we see Jesus. When He does that we will finally experience comfort in the fullest measure. In this, we can be thankful. In our suffering, we can hold on to this promise and we will find joy.

 Dear Father,

 Some days it is so easy to give thanks for the day You have made, while other days are like this. I ask that You show me what I can be thankful for. Give me eyes to see what I cannot.  Soften my heart; it seems sorrowful and numb.  Speak to me at this moment.  Thank you for your mercy.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen