How Can I Give Thanks When Things are Really Bad?

In scripture, we are told to, “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

The question, however, is: is it possible or even appropriate to give thanks in all circumstances, especially when things are really bad? Surely, there are some situations that seem more right to vent our frustration rather than giving thanks. And while the expression of distress, sadness, and confusion may be found in scripture, often, however, in the case of the Psalms of David, he always affirms his confidence and hope in the Lord (Psalm 27:14).

In the New Testament, we find that while Paul was bound in prison, he wrote to the church of Philippi, encouraging them saying:

“I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.” (Philippians 1:12-14)

As an Apostle who had laboured faithfully to advance the Gospel beyond Jerusalem, imprisonment could have been a great discouragement and a reason to perhaps shrink back from engaging with the churches. Paul may have felt a sense of shame and humiliation, often associated with imprisonment.

However, in that dire situation, Paul still found a reason to be thankful, perceiving how his imprisonment had brought to light the Gospel among the unbelieving imperial guard. His imprisonment was serving to further the Gospel in the heart of Rome, while also strengthening and emboldening his fellow believers. In Paul’s situation, although he hoped to be relieved of his predicament, he saw a greater good at work beyond his present comfort, and in that, he rejoiced and kept the faith.

My encouragement to you today is, if you find yourself in a dire situation, like Paul, look beyond your immediate comfort and ask the question, what is God doing?

If you still can’t perceive it, remind yourself of the many blessings you already have, as the old hymn (When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed) encourages us to do. The refrain of the hymn goes:

Count your blessings, name them one by one;