Some days, little things just make me want to gripe. But at the end of the day, I know I don’t have it nearly as bad as so many people around the world—those battling malnourishment, persecution, hate crimes, family violence, addiction, loss, and so much more.
Please hear my heart: I know the things that trouble me are nothing compared to the grand scheme of what our world endures in the face of darkness and evil.
But we’re human. And while it’s important to keep that global context in mind, it’s also important not to reduce our own struggles so much that we start to feel unworthy, unimportant, or like what we’re dealing with is “all in our head.” We’re not wasting anyone’s time by advocating for a little less pain or a little more peace.
So again, I find myself asking: when it comes to always giving thanks—what about those times when things aren’t going well?
There’s no perfect answer. Each of us has to find our own way through that question, using our own experiences as a guide.
For me, two big truths come to mind:
- I am not alone.
- I’ve overcome things before.
You and I aren’t alone—we have the support of an amazing God who wants to walk with us in both the good and the hard times. He listens, really listens, celebrating the positives and grieving with us in the struggles. That’s why I try to keep up my daily prayer time. I don’t want Jesus to think I only come to Him with problems—I want Him in everything I do. Staying close in conversation makes it easier to hear Him when I need counsel, or at least to be open to His answers, even if they come in unexpected ways.
And I remind myself: I’ve made it through tough things before. If I could do it once, I can do it again. But I also know I don’t have to do it alone. While the positive thinking and mental work is mine to do, I lean on the support of family and friends for the rest. Whether it’s advice from their own journeys, sharing a laugh, or just helping out with daily life, my support team is elemental. Together with faith, they help me keep fear and doubt from overtaking trust in God.
So at the end of the day, gratitude weaves through every changing season. I can still find something to be thankful for in every moment—even if I have to squint a little to see it.
Some days feel like a gentle sunrise. Others, like a giant wave crashing over me. No matter what kind of day it is, I notice how faith helps me hold both the beauty and the messiness of life. And honestly? It’s that beauty and messiness that makes it all worth pushing forward for the next experience, leaning on Jesus for support and guidance.
How are you finding gratitude in every season? What helps you stay grounded, even in life’s messiest moments?
Sprinkle some joy in the comments! 🎨