Thanks For Thorns

To give thanks in every situation is sometimes very difficult. When our bodies are wracked by pain, or we have just learned that we have a physical problem for which there is no cure, or we have lost our job, or a cherished relationship has been broken, we don't feel grateful. But we can learn to thank God because He gives us strength when we feel weak.

That is why the apostle Paul could say, "I take pleasure in infirmities, ... in distresses, for Christ's sake." And as believers, we can be grateful that through such experiences God is accomplishing what is best for us. Even through suffering He is working for our good (Rom. 8:28).

Scottish author and preacher George Matheson (1842-1906), who was blind, expressed this prayer: "I have thanked Thee a thousand times for my roses, but never once for my `thorn'. ... Teach me the glory of my cross; teach me the value of my `thorn.' Show me that I have climbed to Thee by the path of pain. Show me that my tears have made my rainbow."

As we surrender ourselves to the Lord and remember that He is working in everything to accomplish our ultimate good, we can thank Him even when we are pierced by "thorns." -KwD

We can give thanks for everything
And say, "Your will be done"
For God's at work in everything
To make us like His Son

WE LESSEN THE PAIN OF SUFFERING WHEN WE LEARN THE LESSON OF GRATITUDE