In Everything Give Thanks: Finding Gratitude in Difficult Times

The world feels uncertain when headlines shout of government shutdowns, layoffs, social, economic, and political division. During such uncertainty, gratitude can feel like a foreign language. How can we be thankful when so much seems unstable? How do we give thanks when the systems around us appear to be falling apart?

The truth is that thankfulness isn’t a denial of reality; it’s a declaration of faith. It’s choosing to see light even when clouds gather. Gratitude doesn’t erase the struggle; it reminds us that even in the struggle, God is still faithfully present and providing.

The Apostle Paul wrote, “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) Notice, it doesn’t say for everything, but in everything. Therefore, gratitude reminds us that God is still working behind the scenes.

Here are some things about gratitude that I want us to remember during difficult times:

1.     Gratitude Grounds Us. When everything feels out of control, gratitude keeps us anchored. It reminds us of what remains: family, community, the breath in our lungs, and the sunrise that comes no matter what’s happening in Washington. When we take a moment to say, “Thank You, Lord,” we shift our focus from what’s broken to what’s still blessed.

2.     Gratitude Builds Resilience. Hard times test us, but they also shape us. Every challenge is an invitation to grow in grace, patience, and endurance. When we give thanks even in hardship, we’re not ignoring the pain; we’re cultivating hope. Gratitude helps us rise each morning with renewed courage, knowing that this too shall pass.

3.     Gratitude Connects Us. A grateful heart naturally reaches outward. During times of uncertainty, communities draw strength from one another. A shared meal, a kind word, or a simple “How are you holding up?” can become sacred acts of thanksgiving. Gratitude reminds us that we are not alone and that compassion for one another can outlast difficulty.

4.     Gratitude Is Worship. The psalmist wrote, “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” (Psalm 34:1) True thankfulness is an act of worship that says, “God, I still trust You, even in difficult times.” Worshipping through difficult times is a declaration that says It’s the echo of 1 Thessalonians 5:18, a heart our faith rests not in circumstances, but in God.

Even in seasons of shutdown and scarcity, take a deep breath, review reasons you can give thanks, because even in difficult times, we can give thanks.

Dr. Toni