Still we are reminded not to let these trials keep us from showing thankfulness for God’s mercy and His gift of salvation. Whether we are comfortable in life or struggling under a weight of adversity, God has given us an opportunity to know Him and serve Him.

What We Give Back

In our key verse today, we see that everything belongs to Him. And oddly enough, this even includes the hardships we struggle with. Yes, God wants us to offer up our struggles to Him with a grateful heart, asking Him to accomplish His purposes in us no matter where we are or what we’re going through. In fact, it’s usually the circumstances beyond our choosing that help us find out and prove what real faith looks like—what it means to trust God no matter what.

The thanks God wants from us is more than an emotion; it’s a dedication of what we have and where we are, even when our faith and courage seem insufficient. In the midst of trials, choosing to be grateful will allow God to transform us, helping us go against our feelings to discover the blessing of His presence.

Bottom Line

Scripture teaches that God inhabits the praises of His people. So if you’re hurting, all the more reason to praise!