How Can I Be Thankful?

Sep 01, 2008 04:57 AM EDT

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

"I hate my clothes!" Rachel shouted. "What's wrong with them?" Stacy asked. "I think you always look nice." Rachel frowned at her friend. "They're all so old!" she exclaimed. "I never have anything new. I just get my sister's old clothes when she grows out of them. I know my parents don't have a lot of money, but I want new clothes like everybody else!"

Like Rachel, when you complain about something, you act like God doesn't know what He is doing. Don't think that way! Stop for a moment and think about God. Remember that God is love, and He loves you! God is wise, and He knows what is best for you! God is powerful, and He can help you!

Give thanks to God for all the great things He has done for you. The Bible says, "always giving thanks to God the Father for everything . . ." (Ephesians 5:20). Sing a song to praise Him instead of complaining. Say the words "I will" and then quote

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. Do this whenever you feel like complaining about your clothes, your family, the weather, schoolwork or whatever. You can be thankful if you will choose to be.

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