Giving Thanks in ALL Circumstances!

As Thanksgiving is approaching I find myself focusing on the many blessings in my life (and there are so many)....and trying to minimize the struggles, hardships and difficult things, BUT then I am reminded that we are to be thankful for ALL things....

1 Thessalonians 5:18
give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Last week, my 17 year old son broke his ankle during his last football game of the season.  It was scary, frustrating and discouraging all at the same time. This is his 5th some what "big" injury and there have been so many minor ones that I can't even count the number of xrays and MRI's this kid has had over the past 6 years.  Everything is more challenging: mobility, showering, the moodiness....

But today,I will thank Him that my son broke his ankle last week (strange I know), but as much as I pray for the Lord's protection before and during his football practices and games, I know this was the Lord's protection from something much worse. I thank Him, that I get to regain precious time with my 17 year old because when your right foot is broken you CAN'T DRIVE...so I have more time with him as I drive him to and fro and he is simply home more when he is on crutches and casted for 6 weeks. 

I thank Him for precious family members diagnosed with scary illnesses that make us all stop and think about what was and what will be.  I know that God will show Himself in amazing ways in the situation and I wait expectantly to see what He is up to. 

I thank Him for the many friends He has placed in my life that are going through tremendous struggles- and I am blessed with the priveledge to pray for and with them. 

While I miss my baby girl like crazy, today, I will thank HIM that my daughter has the opportunity to attend a wonderful university, that she is making precious friendships AND growing in her faith along with getting an amazing education.  I simply can't believe this is our life- one without her living under our roof, but God is growing and equipping all of us while we endure the change.

This has been the longest we have gone without seeing her, and I can't wait until she gets home on Tuesday! I think it will be a special Thanksgiving as we will each appreciate our time with her so much. 

I stand confident that God is good ALL OF THE TIME and for that knowledge, I AM EXTREMELY THANKFUL!