The Truth about Thankfulness

I'll be honest. I don't feel particularly thankful today. Why? Well, because I'm dealing with some stuff right now that's hit me pretty hard, some news that I should be excited about but I'm not, some emotions I should know how to deal with but I don't. That being said, I'm thankful that my feelings don't change the truth, the reality, of Christ and his saving work.

I wrote the other day about joy--making joy a habit. Along with joy, I also see thankfulness as a habit--something to practice, to immerse ourselves in, to exude, if you will.

In 1 Thessalonians 5, Paul writes, "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." And again, in Colossians, he writes, "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

Thankfulness is a command.

So here is what I'm thankful for today:


A recently re-done living room...after the flood, we were left with pretty much nothing in the way of furniture, but less than a week ago, we were blessed with that wonderful futon that has helped my house feel like a home again.

My 40 hour/week job...even if I don't enjoy every minute of it, it provides me with income and helps pay the bills. In the current economy, that's a huge blessing.

My wonderful husband, pictured here with me the weekend after we got engaged (and yes, I had chocolate cake stuffed in my mouth, hence the awkward face), who keeps me sane (AND with whom I've survived eight whole months of marriage!!).

Close friends that remain close friends despite years and distance...love you, girls!

The ability to be silly and enjoy life, even when its hard, and even when I feel like sitting down and crying.

Oh, the ability to laugh at myself. (Above: me at age 10, doing what I do best!)