“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, given thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thessalonians 5:17
When my mom died over four years ago, my sisters and I made a pledge that we would get together once a year since there is such significant physical distance between our various homes, which are located in California, Nashville, and Walled Lake. Typically, Winter Break works well for all of our schedules. In addition, it is a fantastic time for all three of us to head somewhere warm and sunny!
During our second day together, I decided to call home to check-in regarding how much fast food Ken had consumed in my absence, despite the healthy premade meals I had left behind. Midway through our conversation, he nonchalantly mentioned, “I think I may have broken my ankle. I slipped on ice and fell in the street while walking the dog this morning, and I think I even may have heard it break. I’ve had it propped up at work for about six hours hoping it would start feeling better, but I think I need to go get it looked at because it’s actually feeling worse."
A few hours later, Ken called me back. He greeted me by saying, “Well the good news is that I didn’t break my ankle! However, the bad news is… I broke my leg!”
Later that evening, my daughter sent me a video of a conversation that she was having with Ken as he was expressing to her how grateful he was that he broke his left leg. Stunned by his statement, she questioned him further, asking him to unpack what he meant. He continued to express, “If I had broken my wrist or arm, I wouldn’t be able to work, and I am so busy with tax season. If I broke my right leg, I wouldn’t be able to drive, and that would cause so much stress in my life! And I am extremely grateful that I didn’t fall and hit my head! So yes, I am so grateful I only broke my left leg!” After listening to his explanation, I realized what a blessing his optimistic and positive perspective was and how much I can learn from him!
Scripture instructs us in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 to “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, giving thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
It’s so easy to rejoice when life is good, but how do we rejoice when life becomes burdensome and difficult? When disappointments and challenging situations come our way, we have a choice. We can proceed with despair or we proceed with hope.
In this sin-filled world, all of us will face challenging situations, painful experiences, and difficult circumstances. However, through God's power and strength, we can rejoice knowing that we are not in this situation alone because He is always with us. In addition, through the power of the Holy Spirit, we will eventually be able to rejoice and see positive aspects in difficult circumstances.
“We know that in ALL things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).
With God's power, make it a choice to rejoice!
In His Amazing Love,
Mrs. Palka