Cynthia Roemer's Blog, page 8

LESSONS FROM SNOWFLAKES

Have you ever thought about snowflakes?

We’re in the midst of our first major snowstorm of the season here in the Midwest. As I watched the flurry of snowflakes fall, the Lord brought to mind some thoughts about snow I’d never considered before.

SNOWFLAKES ARE… UNIQUELY CREATED

We’ve all heard that there are no two snowflakes alike. Each one is as intricately detailed and unique as each of us. A snowflake can melt away in an instant, much like our lives–fleeting and seemingly insignificant. Except in God’s eyes. He counts each of us worthy through the blood of Christ and knows each of us by name.

STRONGER TOGETHER

A single snowflake, or even a small flurry of snow doesn’t gain much attention. But when they shower down in droves, bleach the earth white, and pack the roads, they cause all sorts of cancellations and change in plans. In the same way, we Christians may not cause a lot of stir through our individual witness. But when we band together as one, we can shine light into a darkened world and make a huge impact if we commit our ways to the Lord.

A PICTURE OF GOD’S MERCY & JUSTICE

When snow falls gently and glistens on the ground and trees, it’s like an image of God’s mercy–peaceful and full of beauty. But when the snow comes fast and furious as in a winter storm, it is a reminder of God’s judgement on the earth. God’s nature is a perfect balance of compassion and justice. His compassion is evidenced in His sending Jesus, His one and only Son to die in our place. But his justice is reserved for those who spurn the gracious gift of redemption.

All this from watching the snow fall out my bedroom. I don’t think I’ll every view snow again without remembering these lessons the Lord brought to mind.

“For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen.”  ~ Romans 1:20

~ Have you ever seen attributes of God in nature?

 

Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & the Civil War Era

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

 

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ADRIFT OR ANCHORED ~ A Heart Adrift

I’m honored to have gifted author and friend Laura Frantz with us today. She shares a great reminder from her newest release, A Heart Adrift.

 

ADRIFT OR ANCHORED

by Laura Frantz

I’m often asked about spiritual lessons or threads in my books. Publishers Weekly describes my books as ‘spiritually subtle.’ Perhaps that means you won’t find many pastor-like characters or conversions in my novels.

I tend to think of fiction as primarily entertainment but Christian fiction is a unique genre and God uses it for His own mysterious purposes in ways we don’t or can’t realize or understand. And I believe novels can be as much for the author’s benefit and edification as readers.

One reader of my latest historical, A Heart Adrift, said that all of the central characters in the novel are adrift in some way. And I confess as the writer that one character in particular – Eliza – helped anchor me when I realized I was drifting or adrift. Eliza is the least spiritual person in the book but she packs a surprising punch, at least to this author!

THE GREATEST DANGER

“The greatest danger to our spiritual life is not the big and bad things that sometimes we think of as train wrecks. It’s just the daily process of drift. If we’re not really intentional to check drift in our lives in all its forms, then we end up as you were mentioning, just seeing our lives pass us by without getting to the best things.” -Del Fehsenfeld

The past three years have been challenging for all of us in different ways. One thing the pandemic has helped expose is our foundation or what we run to when things get complicated & uncomfortable. Oftentimes it’s not Jesus. We may say he is our anchor or rock but we seek other things, quick fixes, and feel good solutions which don’t satisfy & have consequences for not only ourselves but others.

For a more detailed look at my experience adrift, visit https://mtlmagazine.com/intersection-column-a-heart-soul-adrift/

Are you adrift or anchored?

ABOUT LAURA

Christy Award-winning author, Laura Frantz, is passionate about all things historical, particularly the 18th-century, and writes her manuscripts in longhand first. Her stories often incorporate Scottish themes that reflect her family heritage. When not at home in Kentucky, she and her husband live in Washington State.

For some giveaway opportunities and special deals, visit Laura’s Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFrantzA...

A Virginia chocolatier and a privateering sea captain collide once more after a failed love affair a decade before. Will a war and a cache of regrets keep them apart? Or will a new shared vision reunite them?

 

 

MORE INSPIRATIONAL READS

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Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & the Civil War Era

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

 

The post ADRIFT OR ANCHORED ~ A Heart Adrift appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.

DON’T READ MY NOVELS, UNLESS

I just received my first 2-Star rating review for my Civil War novel, Beyond These War-Torn Lands. I suppose every author cringes at a low rating on writing they’ve poured their heart and soul into. But after reading the reason for the low rating, I felt almost a sense of satisfaction, as though I had done what the Lord intended me to do.

Rather than finding fault with my writing itself or the historical elements, the reviewer faulted me for including too much Scripture and went on to say, “I hope all her other books are not like this.”

Though I respect this reader’s opinion, I don’t regret including God’s Word in my novels (and yes, the Spiritual element is strong in each of my novels). =)

There’s a reason I classify my novels as Inspirational Historical Romance. Because that order correctly defines their purpose. They are first and foremost meant to inspire, by weaving godly truths into the heart of the story. Secondly, they are carefully grounded in the details of history. And lastly, there is a thread of sweet romance.

A CAUTION TO READERS

I feel I should include a caution to readers: Don’t read my novels, unless … 

You like messy, flawed characters that turn to God in their time of need and hurt.You are willing to be challenged and grow in your spiritual walk along with the characters.You enjoy an intriguing storyline with some twists and turns and a strong faith element woven within.You enjoy a story where the romance is the dessert and not the whole meal (not the central thrust of the novel). 

 

MARKS OF A STORY

If those are the marks of a story you are looking for, then I’m confident you’ll enjoy my novels. It is those types of readers I’ve been called to write to. Readers that have a hunger to grow and learn from the experiences my characters are taken through. Readers who are open to the healing power of godly truths, such as the one who wrote the following review …

I can’t tell you how rewarding such a review is. I realize not every reader will appreciate my style of writing, but writing is my ministry, and it is my heartfelt prayer that the Lord will use what I write to touch the hearts of many. May the godly truths woven into the storyline and the lives of my characters reach into readers’ hearts and make a change for the better.

~ Do you enjoy the use of Scripture and strong faith elements in the novels you read?

INSPIRATIONAL HISTORICAL ROMANCE

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Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & the Civil War Era

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

 

The post DON’T READ MY NOVELS, UNLESS appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.

TIMES OF TESTING

I love the message in the popular song, Jesus Take the Wheel. The lyrics are a potent reminder that we are totally dependent on God’s grace and mercy. Often we like to fool ourselves into thinking we’ve got our lives under control, when in reality, one twist of events or tragic incident can turn our lives upside down.

Every season of life holds its challenges and uncertainties, situations outside of our control which will test our faith and at times shake us to the core.  When these times of testing come, how can we prepare ourselves to entrust our lives and futures to the Lord?

Relinquish control – Let go and let God may be a catchy phrase, but it can prove a challenge to follow. I’ve had the opportunity to water ski only once in my life. Prior to leaving the dock, the people I was with shared some tips on how best to go about it. The most important tip they shared was that if I fell, I need to let go of the rope handles. I thought to myself, how silly. Why wouldn’t I let go? But sure enough, when I fell, my first instinct was to cling to that handle for dear life. I paid dearly for my mistake with sore arms and flooded nostrils.

Often we make a similar mistake in our lives. We hold too tightly to something or someone instead of trusting God to work things out. Recognizing God’s sovereignty can garner not only peace of mind, but spare us the hardships of wrong choices.

Praise Him Anyway – Scripture speaks repeatedly of the importance of giving God praise and glory. It’s easy to praise God in the good times, but when things go awry, the Lord asks us to do the unthinkable–thank Him for the hardships. 1Thessalonians 5:18 tells us to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

I think of Corrie Ten Boom and her sister, Betsie, who were imprisoned in a Nazi prison camp during World War II. Amazingly, Betsie praised God for the infestation of fleas which kept the guards away and allowed them to hold a Bible study in the prison barracks. Now that’s praising God in all circumstances! When we give God praise despite our circumstances, we’re saying we trust Him with our very lives and that we honor His wisdom and authority.

Take the Next Step – Life’s challenges can stifle our attitudes and paralyze our efforts. Setbacks come. Hopes and dreams go unfulfilled. And we wonder if what we’re working toward is worth the effort. But God has a way of turning things around. Much like walking with a flashlight at night, we see only a dim reflection of what life has in store for us, while God sees the whole picture and knows what’s ahead. When life knocks us down, we must learn to pick ourselves up, take the next step, and trust God to show the way.

How about you? What situations force you to realize you need to give God control?

STORIES TO INSPIRE

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Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & the Civil War Era

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

 

 

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NEW YEAR RECIPE

(This is a reposting of my previous post I enjoy sharing around the New Year. I hope it blesses you!)

Have you ever wished there was a secret recipe for the New Year? Most of our New Year’s resolutions stem from a desire to improve our physical well-being through weight loss, a toned body, or healthier lifestyle. While such resolutions are important, wouldn’t it be wonderful to find a way to boost our spiritual well-being and ensure all could be well with the world?

With all the hatred and animosity overtaking our world, it’s no wonder our hearts long for peace and a fresh start. How the Lord must ache when He sees the violence and discord that plagues our land. If only brotherly love and good-will could replace all the bitterness.

 

EQUIPPED TO STAND 

The good news is, it is possible. The Lord has equipped us with all we need to stand against the evil forces of Satan and his dark demons. God’s Word assures us “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12)

If we could only take that verse to heart, stop fighting against each other, and start working alongside each other, how much healing that would bring!

 

INGREDIENTS TO STRENGTHEN

So I’ve concocted a New Year’s Resolution recipe, one that I believe contains all the necessary ingredients to strengthen our inner selves. The best part is, you can enjoy all you want and the only weight you’ll gain is spiritual heft!

Perhaps if each of us works at cultivating small changes within ourselves, those changes will ripple out into our families, neighborhoods, and communities. Maybe eventually, even our nation and possibly the world!

The Lord is noted for taking something meager and making it into something meaningful. May this year be the one where we choose to give ourselves more fully to Him to work His way and will!

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NEW YEAR RESOLUTION RECIPE

Combine: 2 cups of faith, 1/2 cup of prayer, 2 teaspoons of positive attitude,  1 Tablespoon of patience, and a dash of humility. Mix in the Fruit of the Holy Spirit until smooth. Bake in 350 degree oven of God’s Word until golden brown. Enjoy the wholesome, fulfilling goodness within.

“Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” (John 6:35)

Happy New Year! May the Lord enrich your days and months ahead!

**What’s one way you plan to enhance your relationship with the Lord in 2022?

 

INSPIRATIONAL NOVEL

This post ties in closely with the theme of my latest novel, Beyond These War-Torn Lands. My hero and heroine come to this same resolve of letting their Christ-like love and decisions ripple out into the lives of those they come in contact with. May their story touch your heart in a special way!

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Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

 

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Harmony on the Horizon Insights + Giveaway

I’m honored to have fellow historical romance author, Kathleen Denly as guest today with some insights from her new release. Be sure to enter the Giveaway at the end of the post!

 

Doing the Wrong Thing for the Right Reasonsby Kathleen Denly

In my novel, Harmony on the Horizon, one of my main characters, Fletcher Johnson has four occupations. His first and most well-known occupation is that of a card dealer at a gambling house in San Francisco’s Barbary Coast. This is the job that pays most of his bills. Aside from this, Fletcher also picks up occasional labor work at the docks which helps to fill in the gaps when he has a bad night at the tables or wants to send extra money to his sister at her boarding school. His two other occupations bring in no money at all and place his life in danger, but they are where his heart lies.

Fletcher is outraged and heartbroken by the crime pervading the Barbary Coast, as well as the corruption dominating San Francisco’s government. Determined not to stand idly by, Fletcher uses his unique set of skills in an attempt to affect change within the city. The ways in which he uses them, however, involve deception and are not entirely legal.

Fletcher’s friend Katie is someone he would like to help, but she refuses to accept his help because it involves deceit. She believes that deceit goes against God’s instructions no matter the reasons for it. Yet even she reluctantly employs it when faced with dire circumstances (revealing an inconsistency between beliefs and actions which many of us share).

This got me thinking about other times in history when deception was used for seemingly good reasons. For example, the Underground Railroad which helped American slaves escape their masters in the nineteenth century surely involved deceit. And what of those who helped to hide Jewish and other wanted citizens from the Nazi’s during the world wars? Or what of the deception by the midwives protecting baby boys in Exodus 1 and the deception of Moses’ sister and mother regarding his true identity in Exodus 2:1-10?

Then there is the story of Rahab and the two spies in Joshua chapter 2. Joshua was the leader put in place by God at the time, but God did not explicitly tell Joshua to send these spies.  Nevertheless, the very nature of being a spy involves deception and those men implicitly encouraged Rahab to deceive the king of Jericho into believing the spies had left the city and that she’d not known their importance anyway. Later, she was rewarded for this deception and is often touted as a hero of the Bible for these protective, yet also deceptive actions. So what do we make of the words in James 2:25?

“And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way?”

What does the Bible explicitly say about lies and deceit?  

Psalm 101:7 No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house; no one who utters lies shall continue before my eyes.

Proverbs 20:17 Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man, but afterward his mouth will be full of gravel.

What about the small deceptions, like being nice to people you don’t actually like?

Proverbs 26: 24-26 Whoever hates disguises himself with his lips and harbors deceit in his heart; when he speaks graciously, believe him not, for there are seven abominations in his heart; though his hatred be covered with deception, his wickedness will be exposed in the assembly

Romans 16:18 For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.

Does it matter why someone is lying or only that they are not truthful?

Proverbs 12:5 The thoughts of the righteous are just; the counsels of the wicked are deceitful.

Psalm 5:6 You destroy those who speak lies; the LORD abhors the bloodthirsty and deceitful man.

Proverbs 24:28 Be not a witness against your neighbor without cause, and do not deceive with your lips

Of course, there are far more verses I could quote here, but for the sake of brevity, I’ll encourage you to seek them out on your own. Then ask yourself these questions: Where is the line between right and wrong in situations when your intentions are to protect and/or rescue? Is it ever Biblically justifiable to deceive someone?

Kathleen Denly writes historical romance to entertain, encourage, and inspire readers toward a better understanding of our amazing God and how He sees us. Award winning author of the Chaparral Hearts series, she also shares history tidbits, thoughts on writing, books reviews and more at KathleenDenly.com.

Connect with Kathleen:

Website | Newsletter | FB Author Page | FB Reader Group | Instagram | Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest | BookBub | Amazon

 

INSPIRATIONAL NOVELS

Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie & the Civil War Era

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

 

GIVEAWAY!

In celebration of Kathleen’s upcoming release, Harmony on the Horizon, Book 3 in her Chaparral Hearts series, she is offering a giveaway! 

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One winner* will receive: 

1 Aromatherapy Pendant – with scent ball 1 Lavender Sachet 1 Handmade tag-style bookmark – complete truth quote1 ebook copy of either WITW or SITS – winner’s choice1 Chaparral Hearts Pen1 SITS Bookmark  1  HOTH Sticker

To enter, leave a comment on this blog, and sign up for Kathleen’s Readers’ Club here: http://bit.ly/KRCMemberSignUp

Deadline to enter is 11:59pm January 5, 2022. Winner will be announced in the comments for this post and contacted via email.

*Must have a U.S. Mailing address to win. Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

**Receive notice of future inspirational posts and giveaway opportunities by subscribing to Cynthia’s Sowing Seeds of Hope Blog by scrolling to the blue section at the bottom of this page and leaving your email address! Thank you & Happy New Year!!

 

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A MOST PRECIOUS GIFT

What is your most precious gift?

Like many of you, I love listening to Christmas music in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Recently while wrapping presents, the song, Do You Hear What I Hear? played. As I often do, I sang along. When it came to the lyrics which say, “Let us bring Him silver and gold” I stopped to pause a moment and reflect.

The wise men brought their most valued possessions–gold, frankincense, and myrrh. But, what exactly does that mean for me? What precious gifts can I give to Jesus?

We may not have expensive treasures to share with Christ, but we do have some very precious gifts we can give Him. Not expensive gifts as the world defines them, but ones that are priceless in His eyes.

 

OUR MOST VALUABLE GIFTS

OUR TIME

We all know the gift of time is a very precious one. In today’s busy world, every moment counts. When we sacrifice the gift of time to help someone in need or are simply there for a loved one, Scripture says it is as if we are doing it for the Lord.

OUR TALENTS

We’ve all been given abilities to use for the furtherment of God’s kingdom. Using those gifts for His glory not only blesses those around us, but honors the One who gave us those talents.

OUR HEART

Our most important gift to Jesus is the giving of our heart. When we submit to God’s will for our lives and love Him with all our heart, it blesses Him far more than gold or silver ever could.

This Christmas season, may we find blessing in spending time with the Savior and express our love for Him by serving Him and others. There are no more precious gifts we can give in His eyes.

Blessings to you and yours as you celebrate the greatest gift of all ~ Christ the Lord!

 

INSPIRING READS

Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & beyond

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

 

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THE LIGHT HAS COME

Sunrise and sunset are my favorite times of day. This morning I rose while it was still dark, flipped on the Christmas lights and started working in the kitchen. Several glances out the window gleaned a shift from darkness to the gradual blue and magenta sky of dawn. As the sun crested the horizon, sunlight flooded the landscape bringing it to life.

I’ve always enjoyed watching the sunrise, but this morning it struck me how magnificent the sun is–a vast, fiery orb millions of miles from earth that surrounds us with light and warmth. No earthly light can even come close to its colossal brilliance, so bright it can’t be looked upon. Once again I was amazed how something so far away could bring light and warmth to half the surface of the earth,

MORE AMAZING AND GLORIOUS

As I pondered the Lord’s marvelous creation and the way He planned out every detail, placing it at the perfect distance to give off just the right amount of light, heat, and consistency, it struck me that there is even a more amazing and glorious “Son”.

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Jesus, Emmanuel – God with us.

Jesus brought light to a dark world. Yet, unlike the finite power of the earth’s sun, He brought light to all the world through His Spirit-filled life, His sacrificial death, and His glorious resurrection were a testament of God’s great love for us.

 

THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD

We have an awesome redeemer–the Light of the World. Unlike the distant sun, the Son of God came and dwelt among us. He arrived in a quiet, humble way, unnoticed by the world. And yet, the light of Christ shines brighter in our hearts than a thousand suns ever could.

As you celebrate Christmas, may the knowledge of God’s precious gift of love and eternal life bring you joy and blessing. No matter how dark and challenging this world around us may grow, Jesus–the Light of Heaven–shines in our hearts and lives.

~ How do you keep Jesus at the center of your Christmas celebration?

 

INSPIRATIONAL STORIES

Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie  & beyond

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

 

 

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WILL WE EVER KNOW PEACE?

December 7, 1941. Pearl Harbor Day. A day that will live in infamy, as President Franklin D. Roosevelt termed it. That calendar day never passes without me recalling the horrendous act that catapulted the United States into World War II. I’m certain those who lived through that time in history must have wondered if the world would ever know peace again.

With so much violence and upheaval happening in our world today, I have to wonder the same. Every day newscasts are inundated with senseless shootings, acts of terrorism, and threats of war. Is there such a thing as peace amid these high-tech, modern day free-for-alls?

 

THE COMING OF THE MESSIAH

Two thousand years ago, God’s people must have had a similar mindset. The Roman army had infiltrated they’re land, subjecting them to cruel treatment and harsh taxes. Year after year they cried out to God for deliverance, but He remained silent. Still, they never lost hope in the coming of the Messiah.

Then, when the time was right, God answered their pleas in the form of a babe in a manger. In the stillness of a stable, the Savior of the world drew His first breath and uttered His first cry. On that glorious, starlit night, shepherds came to worship Him. Such a peaceful scene, one that continues to stir our hearts to worship, even today.

Yet, Christ wasn’t the warrior king His people longed for, One who would fight to overthrow the oppressive Roman Empire. Instead, He came as an innocent Child, born to change hearts and bring truth and forgiveness to all who call on His name.

 

GOD’S PRICELESS GIFT

This December, as you prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, remember the sacrifices made to redeem us and bring peace with God–the priceless gift of God’s Son, and Christ’s willingness to give His life for ours.

Despite the turbulence surrounding us, peace can be ours when we hold Christ in our hearts. The day Christ came to earth was not a day that will “live in infamy”, but one that ushered in eternity for those who know Him as Lord and Savior.

How do you experience the peace of Christ amid all of life’s stresses?

 

INSPIRATIONAL NOVELS

Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie & beyond

Inspirational Historical Romance

~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.

 

The post WILL WE EVER KNOW PEACE? appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.

Giving Thanks for the Hard Stuff

This Thanksgiving I’m extra thankful for all the Lord has brought my husband and me through–two cancer diagnoses, treatments, the death of my dad, and a pandemic, How blessed we are to have had the Lord by our side through it all.

It’s easy to give thanks for good things such as family, friends, and good health. Yet Scripture tells us to “be thankful in all circumstances.” (I Thessalonians 5:18). What do we do with the situations in our lives that aren’t so easy to be thankful for, the struggles and hardships we all face along life’s journey?

How can we display gratitude and find God’s grace in even the most trying of circumstances?

THANKING GOD WHEN IT’S HARD 

Pain – Thanking God for pain is like hugging someone for dropping a hammer on your foot. How can anything good come from the painful circumstances in our lives?

The best answer I can give is that by pushing past the pain and looking beyond our present situations, we grow stronger and our relationship with the Lord deepens.

Think about it. If everything in our lives ran smoothly, we’d go through life unchallenged, never having to trust in God’s promise to be with us. Only through the difficulties of life do we find ourselves relying on the Lord’s strength, and in the process find our faith stretched. Pain is a catalyst for growth. Without pain, our lives becomes stagnant. We can thank God for pain because, through it, we mature in our faith and are drawn closer to Him.

Financial Stress – Most of us have experienced the pinch of not having enough money at some point in our lives. The unexpected hits –health issues, job layoffs, hospital bills, unemployment, unexpected expenses. Whatever the circumstance, trying to make ends meet can prove a major source of stress that affects every aspect of our lives.

Yet, the Lord has promised to “meet all our needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19) This is not to say God is a genie who’ll fulfill our every whim and wish. Instead, He merely wants us to rest in Him, knowing He will care for us. When we praise Him, despite our needs, He will bless us in our faithfulness to Him.

Health Issues – What good can come of sickness or disease? When our health fails, our bodily strength weakens. Yet, instead of giving in to moments of self-pity and discouragement, the Lord desires us to rely on His strength.

When we surrender ourselves to Him, He grants us peace to journey through hardships alongside Him. Thanking God in the midst of physical weakness, empowers Him to move in our lives and demonstrate His glory.

Separation From a Loved One in Life or in Death – Nothing is more heart-wrenching than being separated from or losing a loved one. When the numbness eases, and the tears flow free, there seems nothing but memories to hold on to.

Yet, the Lord has given His people a precious gift to cling to – the hope of glory, through His Son, Jesus, and the knowledge that we will one day see our loved ones again. Praise be to God for His gift of salvation and for the hope He gives us through His Word.

God bless you as you rest in Him through life’s journey!

GIVEAWAY FOR SUBSCRIBERS

I’ll be hosting a giveaway for my Author Newsletter Subscribers only in the month of December. If you aren’t already an newsletter subscriber, I invite you to join us for fun trivia, exclusive giveaways, writing updates and special deal alerts. Sign up by December 1st to be included in a chance to win a signed, print copy of one of my novels (winner’s choice).

CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE

 

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