Even so, I knew we were luckier than most people in our situation. We had a place to stay with family, and my husband still had his job. So although I certainly didn’t feel cheerful about what was happening, I knew that God hadn’t abandoned us.

As I sat in the passenger’s seat crying, I felt God’s gentle whisper that He still held us in the palm of His hand. In a way this was a new beginning. I silently pleaded with God to give me an attitude of gratitude in the midst of difficult circumstances.

Over the next few weeks, I made an effort to look for the best in all circumstances. I searched for and read Scripture that was positive and uplifting. Although our situation hadn’t changed, my faith had grown, and I knew God was working for our good.

Do you have something in your life that you’re having a hard time being grateful for? Maybe you’ve lost a job, your home, or even a loved one. If you have experienced something so devastating that you just can’t see anything positive, God can still help you be grateful for what you do have. First Thessalonians 5:16–18 reminds us to “rejoice always! Pray constantly. Give thanks in everything, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” And Romans 8:28 promises, “We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose.”