It is common to feel like life is stuck in a valley, even when the sun is shining outside your window. If you have ever battled an illness or walked with a loved one through a time of prolonged suffering, whether self-inflicted or otherwise, you will know exactly what I am talking about. You do not need to read an article on how to maintain discouragement or frustration in the valley. We do that quite adequately all by ourselves… at least I do.

When our son was struggling with addictions, I learned this one truth that consistently ushered me out of that valley each time. I do confess however, some days I had to do it multiple times.

We are talking about giving thanks to God. When we attach thanksgiving to each of your prayer requests, the Holy Spirit uses it to boost our faith. How thankful you are actually feeling at that moment is irrelevant. It is something we must do out of obedience.

There were times when the valley was so dark, I had to start with music. I would play worship songs that spoke for me, and I would play it repeatedly. My favorite was Matt Redman’s song, 10,000 Reasons. Even if I felt nothing as I turned it on, God used it to move me from despair to hope.

As we think about going to God to lay our cares down at his feet, remember to, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:6-7)

As we give thanks, we are obedient to what God asks of us, but we also acknowledge that he has heard us, and he is able! Both truths, lead us to a better place.

I know this is not new to many of you, but it is a precious reminder of whatever you may be facing today.