Giving Thanks in Trials
“Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV
It was gut wrenching news that sent me to my knees. Another job layoff. It hasn’t even been two years since the last one. But this time, with no severance pay and no unemployment benefits, it is different. February 29th was to be my husband’s last day under his current contract. We were facing financial disaster and it was coming quick.
We’ve been through two job layoffs before. During both of them our family came through unscathed. We were never late on a payment, not even a mortgage payment. However, both of those layoffs had severance and unemployment. Doubt was taking root and I wasn’t finding much to be thankful for.
In the Precept class on Daniel I am leading, Kay Arthur spoke about giving thanks in all our circumstances. Yet looking at our situation, no job opportunity in sight and a shaky, weak economy, it almost seemed impossible to let go and not panic. However, by practicing giving thanks and having faith work together for me to believe God at His word.
I can thank God that He isn’t surprised that my husband lost his job. He is still sovereign and in ultimate control. While I struggle with wracked nerves, giving thanks and acknowledging that God can handle the situation does build my faith.
Well, February 29th has come and gone. My husband’s contract ended and by God’s grace and provision, he has a job. So I am giving thanks that God once again worked his hand in our desperate situation. I am also giving thanks that trials build my faith and help me to further trust God and His word to us.
I loved this quote from Mueller:
“To learn strong faith is to endure great trials. I have learned my faith by standing firm amid severe testings.”
Giving thanks and having faith is pleasing to God. He wants us to trust him. That is why he gave us promises in the Word. Hebrews 11:6 says,
“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”
To God be the glory, great things he has done!
Amen, in all ways, always give Him thanks.
Dana, I can identify with your struggles. After being financially secure for so many years, my life was turned upside down. We had to leave our home and for the last two years have lived in a temporary dwelling. However, I have felt closer to the Lord through it all. He is my ultimate Provider.
I am glad to read that your husband has a new job.
Blessings and love,
Debbie
So happy that your husband is still working. God is an awesome God! Thanks for sharing.
So thankful for the peace that God gives us in such trying times. He is always on time….may we all be like you and find peace and beauty even in the uncertainity. 🙂
Dana,
Thank you for this devotion. I am reminded of Judges 7:2-8. In our life of faith, our resources can become the enemy of trust. God wants us to depend on Him, not our own strength, whether physical, financial, or intellectual. He has come through many times for us and we continue to give Him thanks with a grateful heart!
Love you,
Mom
Thankful with you that your husband still has his job.
Thank you for sharing this powerful message of hope.