Lately we’ve had some sad things and mishaps occurring one after another. I know this happens to everyone sooner or later, but when it happens to me, I tend to feel sorry for myself. I start to question why. Is it something I’ve done or not done? When I mentioned this to my sister, she said she looked at it as a testing of our faith. I told her, in that case, I was failing. Instead of looking at the blessings I have, or how these trials would make my faith stronger, I find myself whining about my problems. Even though I thank God every day for my blessings, I wonder if I’m really thankful or they’re just empty words. But when I stop and think about what we have going on it seems very small compared to what others are facing. I should be praying about it, praising God, and thanking him for everything- not just the good things.

James 1:2-3, “Consider it pure joy my brothers and sisters whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance…”

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