I love writing down the people, the things, the situations in life that God has used to bless me and my family. I encourage you to do the same as there is nothing that brightens our lives more than the spirit of gratitude Let me assure you that Holly Springs UMC is very high on my list of that which I am giving God thanks during this Thanksgiving season. 

In this sermon, I flipp the script and talk about the other side of giving thanks. Paul, writing to the Church in Philippi, said that we should give thanks not just for the blessings that make us smile but to also give thanks in the tough times, when life seems chaotic and the winds of trouble begin to blow. The Apostle Paul said we are to give God thanks in all things, for this is God’s will for us. (Philippians 4:6-7)

 This sermon is to help all those who hear to find themselves encouraged and their faith strengthened as we learn to give, not just when the tough times are over, but to give thanks amid the tough times as well.

Here's a list of How to Stay Thankful in the Tough times in Life

We all know from experience that life can create some tough times for us. If we are not careful, those tough moments can cause us to become bitter which leads to a thankless life which also leads to a joyless life. Last Sunday we focused on four things we can do in those tough times.

  1. Remember God’s faithfulness in the past. Look back on how He was there in those dark moments in the past and how He walked with you through the valley and brought you safely through.
  2. Focus on what you have and not on what you don’t have or what you have lost.
  3. Make a list of that which you are thankful for right now and then, in attitude of prayer, read your list back to God out loud. Sometimes saying it out loud solidifies the feelings of gratitude inside.
  4. There is power in praise so worship God faithfully, even in the tough times. He, in turn, can turn your pain into praise as you are filled with His love and grace.