in all and in everything

I've started this habit when I find myself unable to sleep or fighting off feelings of uncertainty: I take out my trusty journal and start adding to my thankful list, writing down all the things I am thankful for.

An internal transformation usually occurs in this time as I find I don't have near as much room in my brain for that anxiety that was plaguing me, for that discontentment, for grumpiness, or for pity parties.

But here's the thing...

I've been challenged over the last year by the verses that command me to give thanks, in all things. 

Or in everything.

All means all. 

Everything means everything.

My thankful list should include the good and the bad. 

One of my favorite all time books is The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom, I love the story where she and her sister are sent to the Nazi prison camp, Dachau, and assigned to a flea-ridden bunk room. That first night as they realize the terrible conditions they choose to stand there and pray, giving thanks specifically for the fleas. 

Later on during their stay they are able to start and lead Bible studies in that room without fear of discovery from the guards that were present in every other bunk room, who kept away because of the fleas.

My thankful list has slowly gone through a transformation to include the things I would categorize as difficult...the low bank account statement, the sickness, the difficult person I am dealing with, the child with an issue I can't figure out...

When I thank the Lord for the difficult things in my life, I am trusting His Sovereignty and allowing myself to let go of the control. Then the biggest transformation of all can occur: I am filled with Him, not my worries about me, and true peace comes and settles in. 

Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5:20

In all things, give thanks. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

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