Reasons to Give THANKS in Difficult Times

Queen Phillips
Nov 12, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Dec 2, 2025

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” —1 Thessalonians 5:18

As Thanksgiving approaches, it can feel challenging to celebrate when life seems uncertain. Many face difficulties, loss, or transitions that make gratitude feel distant. You might wonder, "What is there to be thankful for?" I want to share four compelling reasons to give thanks, even in tough times. It is during these moments that thanksgiving becomes most meaningful.

Gratitude Changes Our Perspective

We often view life through a lens shaped by our senses. We tend to focus more on the negative than the positive. This habit allows what’s wrong to overshadow what’s right. Our senses latch onto what is loud, disappointing, or urgent. Before we know it, our perspective is shaped by lack rather than possibility. But thankfulness shifts that lens.

Thankfulness helps us see beyond what’s missing to what’s still working. It retrains our hearts to recognize God’s hand in the small, quiet places we often overlook when our attention is fixed on problems. Gratitude moves our focus from frustration to faith. It teaches us to pause, breathe, and acknowledge that God is still present, still providing, and still faithful.

When we practice thankfulness, our eyes adjust to a new kind of light—one that highlights the blessings hidden in ordinary moments. The warmth of a conversation, the strength to try again, the provision we didn’t expect, and the peace that surprises us—these become glimpses of grace that remind us we are not forsaken. From this perspective, gratitude becomes more than a response; it becomes a spiritual discipline that transforms how we see, live, and trust the God who created us in His image and likeness.

Thanksgiving Strengthens Faith

Every day presents challenges to our beliefs and values. However, we have the ability to choose how we respond. It’s easy to feel annoyed and frustrated. We’re prone to complain, but if we take a moment to reflect, it can change how we react. No doubt, something has frustrated you before, and it worked out better than you expected. The same God can work in your favor again!

When we recall how God has guided us in the past, we find courage to believe He’ll do it again. Remembering past mercies can anchor us in hope for the future. Gratitude is not denial—it’s declaration. It boldly states, “God is still good, even here.”

Gratitude Invites God’s Presence

The psalmist reminds us constantly, "Oh, give thanks to the *Lord. When we express gratitude, even through tears, we create space for peace to enter and for His presence to dwell. Gratitude shifts the atmosphere of our hearts. It loosens the grip of worry, softens the weight of disappointment, and realigns our focus with the goodness of God.

In moments when life feels overwhelming, thanksgiving becomes an act of faith. It declares that God is still near, still working, and still worthy of praise and thanks. Gratitude repositions our spirit from burden to trust, from chaos to calm, and from complaining to quiet confidence. Through simple words of thanks, we invite God’s comfort, wisdom, and strength to steady us once again.

Thanksgiving Unites and Heals

Sharing gratitude—whether around the table, in a prayer, or through a simple “thank you”—reminds us we’re not alone. Hope grows stronger in community. When we voice our appreciation, we weave our stories together and create bonds that silence isolation. Gratitude spoken aloud opens hearts, softens disagreements, and draws people closer.

Whether it’s a family gathering, a quiet moment with a friend, or an unexpected kindness exchanged with a stranger, expressing thanks affirms that God is at work in and through our relationships. It turns ordinary moments into sacred ones. As we share our gratitude, we strengthen the collective hope that carries us forward—reminding each other that even in difficult seasons, we have reasons to believe, reasons to trust God, and reasons to keep going together.

Gratitude doesn’t deny hardship—it declares that God’s grace is greater than our grief. No matter what you face this season, take time to pause, reflect, and give thanks. Gratitude may not change your circumstances, but it will change your heart—and that’s where true transformation begins.

Embracing a Grateful Heart

In closing, let us remember the power of gratitude. It is a choice we make daily, a practice that can transform our lives. When we cultivate a grateful heart, we open ourselves to the blessings that God has in store for us. Let’s embrace this journey together, encouraging one another to find joy in the little things and to recognize the abundance around us.

As we navigate through life's challenges, may we always find reasons to give thanks. Let our hearts overflow with gratitude, and may we share that light with others. Together, we can create a ripple effect of hope and encouragement in our communities.