Myosotis Posey

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In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

The passage from 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 rings out with a powerful call to action: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” But how do we truly live this out, especially when faced with immense hardship?

Thankful for Fleas?

Corrie Ten Boom, a Holocaust survivor, offers a remarkable example in her book The Hiding Place. In the midst of the horrific conditions of a concentration camp, Corrie and her sister Betsie clung to their faith.

One particularly challenging moment comes when they are transferred to a new barracks, a place of overcrowding and filth. As they grapple with despair, Betsie utters a simple yet profound statement, reminding Corrie of the verse from Thessalonians: “Give thanks in all circumstances!”

Corrie’s initial reaction is one of resistance. How can one possibly be grateful for fleas or any aspect of such a dire situation? But Betsie’s unwavering faith challenges Corrie to see things differently. They begin to find things to be thankful for, one by one: being together, having the Bible, and even the sheer number of women in the barracks who might be open to hearing a message of hope.

This act of gratitude, however small it may seem, has a profound impact. The cramped conditions that initially seemed like a curse become an unexpected blessing. The guards avoid entering the barracks due to the fleas, creating a space of freedom for Corrie and Betsie to hold worship services for the other women.

Transformative Power of Gratitude

Corrie’s story is a testament to the transformative power of gratitude. Even in the darkest of circumstances, it allows us to find a glimmer of hope and connect with something larger than ourselves.

Prayer

Lord, I am grateful that we can give thanks in every situation! Thank You for Your Sovereignty! Even when we don’t understand our circumstances, we can rely on Your great power and love.

Help us to fully surrender to You. Thank You for the examples of Corrie and Betsie! Please help me to be more like them, giving thanks in all situations. Help me to be more like Betsie, whose life and prayers were inseparable.

Thank You for Your everlasting lovingkindness, for Your Son, and for allowing me to be Your child. Thank You for the privilege of worshiping You for eternity. I praise Your Holy Name, Abba, Father. Thank You!