"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."--1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

This past Saturday marked 23 years since my first husband’s death. While, I know that my children didn’t get to know their biological father due to his tragic death at such a young age, I can look back on my life the past 23 years and see how God took care of us despite this tragedy. Rather than focus on what we didn't have, I chose to embrace what we still had. Despite them not having an earthly father until I remarried five years later, they had and will always have their Heavenly Father. This is a truth that doesn't change for any of us.

When my daughter was diagnosed with thyroid with cancer this past fall, the natural, human tendency was to not give thanks. However, rather than focus on the word, “cancer,” I chose to give thanks for all of the supernatural provisions during that time. Giving thanks for all of the ways God has provided for my family, kept things in perspective for me. Her circumstances didn’t change but her faith and trust in Jesus did. God has a purpose for her life and slowly His divine plan is being revealed to her.

Despite your circumstances, do you live a life of joy in Jesus or do you feel sorry for yourself and earn that black belt in self pity? Thanking God for your daily blessings may not change the circumstances that surround you today but it can change your heart, mind and soul. It can transform an attitude of the glass is always 1/2 empty to the glass is 1/2 full. 

Dear Lord,

Thank You for all that You have given me. Help me to focus on all of my daily blessings and not what I don’t have. Give me eyes to see trials through Your perspective, not my limited view. I lift those up to You, whose earthly fathers are no longer here and pray that they not lose sight that they have You, their Heavenly Father in their lives every moment of their day. It is in the name of Jesus that I pray these things. Amen.

Continue to memorize,“Search the Lord and for his strength; continually seek him ”—1 Chronicles 16:11.

If you are making any gifts to give away this month, please make sure you tweet @KnitPrayShare or share your projects on the K nit Pray Share Facebook page or Instagram using the hashtags #ThreadsWithRed #KnitPrayShare. Make sure you attach a gift tag to whatever gift you make and let the person know that they made a difference in your day.