“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Philippians 4:8
Suffering is a giver as well as a taker. There are certain gifts we receive that we would not have gotten had we not gone through a season of sorrow. Suffering, by the goodness of the Father, is a part of life that will surprise us when it has finished its work.
One of the greatest things I have received from enduring what I never wanted is the simple gift of gratitude. Though to be fair, those who have endured much know that gratitude is no “simple” attribute. It takes discipline (born of great struggle) to focus on the things of this world which are lovely and pure, that are noble and worthy of praise. We focus on them and remind ourselves that while we endure, the Father still provides for us.
I can’t say that I unfailingly practice gratitude. However, I can say that as a result of the gift of want, I have been trained to be grateful for what I have. When we have to endure, we can either think about all we are missing out on, or we can turn our eyes to the Father, who is the source of everything excellent and praiseworthy.
One of the greatest things I have received from enduring what I never wanted is the simple gift of gratitude. Though to be fair, those who have endured much know that gratitude is no “simple” attribute. It takes discipline (born of great struggle) to focus on the things of this world which are lovely and pure, that are noble and worthy of praise. We focus on them and remind ourselves that while we endure, the Father still provides for us.
I can’t say that I unfailingly practice gratitude. However, I can say that as a result of the gift of want, I have been trained to be grateful for what I have. When we have to endure, we can either think about all we are missing out on, or we can turn our eyes to the Father, who is the source of everything excellent and praiseworthy.
Scripture Focus
Philippians 4:8-9
Insight
“I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in you.” (Psalm 9:1-2)
Bible In A Year
- Jeremiah 27-28
- Psalm 117
- 1 Corinthians 8-9