Learning Gratitude in Difficult Circumstances

“Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.”  Philippians 4:11-12

Gratitude comes easily when life unfolds according to our plans. But what happens when it doesn’t? Through unexpected changes, personal disappointments, and painful trials, God teaches us that gratitude in difficult circumstances is not simply a feeling. It is a growing confidence in His goodness, provision, and sovereignty.

Gratitude in difficult circumstances is not simply a feeling. It is a growing confidence in God’s goodness, provision, and sovereignty.

When Gratitude Doesn’t Come Naturally

We have four children. Our middle two are twin girls. When they were around eight years old, I purchased two cute dresses on sale. When the girls were born, the pediatrician had suggested that if we decided to dress them alike, to try to at least make the clothing different colors so each child could develop individual personalities with personal preferences. Having heard his advice, I tried to comply. I was excited to surprise the girls with new dresses. One dress was blue, and the other dress was red. So, I handed them each a dress and was disappointed in the reaction of one of my daughters. She didn’t like the colors and began to cry. From my grown-up perspective, I thought they should have been grateful that I even bought them dresses. The next hour was quite dramatic. I was trying to explain that gifts should be received with gratitude. Her reaction caused us to miss a party that would have been enjoyable.

When I recall that scene, I know God must often be disappointed in me. Things happen in life, and rather than being grateful, I grumble. He is good. He gives what I need, I know that, but I am guilty of not always receiving what He gives with a grateful heart.

Learning Contentment Through Life’s Changes

I was an only child. Growing up in my father’s home was quite an adventure—one I did not want to experience. Before I graduated high school, I had been to over 21 schools. I can still hear my dad’s encouragement: “Bill, just think of all the new friends you will make.” I didn’t want to make new friends; I liked the friends I had. Life was filled with new homes, new neighborhoods, new friends. Over time, I learned to accept the situation, but I was not grateful. I reiterated to my mother, “When I get married, we are going to buy a house and live in that house until we die!” As life would have it, I have lived in 28 houses with my prince!

Looking back, I have learned to appreciate God’s sovereignty and even be grateful for the way I grew up. He knew that I would need to learn the art of flexibility and to grow in gratitude and contentment. I made many new friends. Some of these friends have become my mentors or prayer partners. They have shared life with me, and I am so blessed to know them. I have lived in large homes and small homes. I loved some of our homes, but I learned to always be grateful for a roof over my head. I definitely do not have deep roots in any place. As a citizen of heaven, I suppose that is a good way to view life on earth. God used my childhood to prepare me for my adulthood. I have not missed the party!  

Finding Gratitude in Difficult Circumstances

As a woman who deeply longs for security, God has trained me to accept what comes my way. I may struggle initially, but I quickly accept new situations. Are we ever prepared for hard times? That is always a challenge. Almost eight years ago, my husband suffered a spinal stroke, an extremely rare condition. Initially, he was paralyzed from the waist down, with future change uncertain. Almost immediately, I felt the peace that God gives. In a surreal way, I was grateful knowing that God was with us and that He would strengthen us as we faced our uncertain future. It was God’s sovereignty that I trusted. I can’t explain it, but God gifted me peace, for which I am so grateful. Like Paul, I have learned throughout my life to walk the road before me and trust God for provision. I am not super-spiritual nor holier than anyone. God’s workmanship in my life was and is on display. Currently, my husband can walk, although he battles constant pain. He has always been a warrior, and I am so very proud of his fight! We are grateful that God sustains us even through life’s challenges.

As I write and ponder my upbringing, I am grateful for what I learned, such as to not be so shy. I also learned how to adapt to differing environments and let go of the past to embrace the future. God was preparing me to live in the present and accept all kinds of people and situations as we served Him in the local church.

As you turn to prayer today, be grateful in your circumstances, knowing that God is present. Thank Him for His provision, protection, power, and wisdom, being confident in His character, His love, and His sovereignty. Be grateful for the big and little things He is doing to create the image of Christ in you and your marriage. It is about His glory.

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way.  The Lord be with you all.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16

“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18

“He turns a desert into pools of water, a parched land into springs of water.” Psalm 107:35

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