In Hard Times

Don't you wish everything in life could be wonderful and perfect all the time? Life would be so much easier that way. Unfortunately, living on earth isn't like it. You can have something so great happen to you and in the very same day get the worst news ever. Today, I had a family member pass away. She was a second grandmother to me. Having a conversation with her would make you feel like you were in the presence of God. I know she is in a better place but things like these are always hard to accept. Yesterday I was reading in Classic Christianity this quote. This brings me encouragement. Hopefully, if you have lost a loved one or are going through a hard time it will also lift you up.

Classic Christianity Page 179
"I don't know for sure what God's will is in regard to your situation, "I answer, "but I do know this: It's God's will that you give thanks in this situation."
Why would God tell us to give thanks in all circumstances, even in bad ones? Because giving thanks is a concrete expression of our faith in God-that our lives are in His hands, and that we are trusting Him to fulfill His promise in Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." The result of trusting God with our lives and expressing that faith through giving thanks is a freedom and peace that is supernatural:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6,7)