My dad loved sailing and that is what we did in the summer. Often times we would spend the weekend on the boat in the waterway. There were not that many people out there and chances were when you saw someone, you knew them! I remember one particular time we were anchored off of Masonboro Island and a very unexpected storm came up. I was probably eight years old. My paternal grandmother was with us. She had my younger brother and I in the cabin and Mom was trying to help Dad. I remember the rain was hitting him so hard in the eyes that he could not see. They were not saying anything and even though I was young, I knew, to stay quiet. No time for questions. But, I remember, I was not scared because my father always took care of me. Years later, I knew how scary and dangerous that day was! Looking back there is no doubt that my parents were praying and leaning on God to get through the storm.
In staff meeting we listened to a song, "Sometimes It Takes A Mountain" by the Gaither Vocal band, as our devotional. The chorus really spoke to me. "Sometimes it takes a mountain,
Sometimes a troubled sea, Sometimes it takes a desert To get a hold of me. Your love is so much stronger Than whatever troubles me. Sometimes it takes a mountain To trust You and believe." When I look back at the hard times in my life, that is when God got a hold of me. And I held on to Him. It was like we were hugging and I was in His arms - safe. We know we are told we will have tough times. John 16: 33, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." I can also look back at those times and see so many blessings that God brought from it. And I believe there are more to come.
As a child, my father made me feel safe. As an adult my heavenly Father makes me feel safe. I know He is my protector. Psalm 91: 4, "He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart." I know He wants what is best for me. Jeremiah 29: 11, "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" And I know that He will bring good from those times. Romans 8: 28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
Because of all of these truths, I give Him thanks for the hard times because I know this is when I will grow in faith. 1 Thessalonians 5:18, "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." This is not saying we are thankful for everything. There is a lot of things I am not thankful for right now! It says to give thanks in all circumstances. Just as I say I can be joyful, despite my circumstances. I can be thankful despite my circumstances.
I like how Rick Warren puts it, "If you’re not living a grateful life—despite your circumstances—you’re out of God’s will. It’s that simple."