In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 (VW)

Here’s a thought that can either be very uncomfortable or very comfortable, depending on the strength of my faith: When bad things replace good things in my life, I still have just as many reasons to give thanks to God.

Faith is essential for this to be a comforting thought, because I must trust that God works all things to my good, including allowing the bad things to happen to me. Even if I violently lose my life for the sake of the gospel, I have a crown of life waiting for me, and an eternal weight of glory that far surpasses the light and momentary trials of this life. The eternal blessings are no comparison to the worst that can happen to me here.

…let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

– Hebrews 12:1-2 (VW)

Lord, strengthen my faith!