Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!  – 1 Chronicles 16:34

Can you hold two seemingly contradictory truths at the same time? Every follower of Christ will have the opportunity to discover the reality of the saying, “Life is hard AND God is good.“ You may have difficulty seeing the Lord as good in a world of chaos and destruction, and you are not alone. Do not be afraid to admit your doubts and take another look.  

One of the first steps in recognizing God’s goodness is to double-check that you are looking at life correctly! Some people go through the day making a list of everything “wrong:” the things they want but do not have, and the problems they do have and do not want. Those lists can become a filter of doubt, blinding you to God’s blessings.   

Giving thanks is the reasonable response to the revelation of God’s gift of salvation through Christ and your adoption into His eternal Kingdom. It is not adopting some fantasy perspective. The Lord’s favor upon His children is an aspect of His character, not a reflection of your worthiness. If you are a child of God, you are blessed and have a reason to be grateful.    

All the good you find on Earth and in your life comes from God: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights“ (James 1:17). Good things are not a fortunate coincidence or something you made happen. View these clearly as “reasons for gratitude.” Yes, life is challenging, but the Lord is good! Offer Him the praise He is due, and invite those you know to join in that celebration.