Devotions: God's Will for You

In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

This verse has been a constant companion through marriage and motherhood. It is easy to give thanks when life is good, everything is easy. But when life is hard…It is often hard to find anything for which to be thankful. Yet we have this assurance that God is in control, and not only is He in control, but what you are going through is part of His plan. Granted, I’m sure He didn’t want your spouse to leave you or someone to rob you or mistreat you, etc. but you are still in His hand and in His plan. And He can and will make everything work out for your good. That’s a promise. Part of His plan for you is to make you more like Him and that happens best through trials and hardship. I have grown and learned so much more in the last few years of conflict than I had the previous ten years of my easy Christian life because I was forced to draw closer to God. Trials and difficulties are what grow our faith and make our roots go deep so that we can weather the next storm better. Everything we go through prepares us for what is ahead. So when life gets hard remember this is where God wants you. He has a plan and He is in control, so trust Him to take care of it and you. Surrender to His teaching. And give thanks.