It's always an eye-opening experience for me during this month of thanks. It challenges me to look at my gratitude the other 335 days of the year. I find myself lacking at times.
Yesterday, I went out in the rain multiple times and promised myself I would not complain about the rain. It wasn't pleasant, but I kept thinking of all those battling the fires nearby. How bad they needed rain.
Other things happened around the house due to the rain and I stopped myself from complaining when I remembered those who have lost their homes this week.
I wish throughout the year when I was tempted to complain that I would be thankful instead. I wish that my first response would be to praise the Lord in the midst of difficult circumstances. To look for His purposes and goodness in the hard times. To be ready with my thanks in the best of times instead of forgetting it in the moment.
My goal this upcoming year:
Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:18