I don’t usually start with scripture, but today this one struck me. The theme of ALL.
“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
Lots of stuff to be upset about these days, right?
Circumstances. Good. Bad.
This verse says, “...give thanks in all circumstances...”
What?
Yes. All. Not some.
My drinking was all circumstance-induced. That was my solution. Circumstances in this world got me every time. Some of them were big—death. Some of them were small—broken shoe laces. All were excuses for me to check out.
Since I turned my will and life over to the care of God many days ago, I know that I need His help with all that I do. We can’t do this alone on this earth. There will always be circumstances. Excuses. Reasons to get mad, look the other way, run, check out, drink, use. I heard a person say in a meeting last night, “When I drink, all my choices go away.” This is true for me.
No choice.
Now that I am sober, I have a choice— to engage with others, with life and with my God. When I give thanks in ALL my circumstances, I get to feel the feelings, express myself, share my upset, share my experiences, get them out of my head. Help someone else, feel grateful that I am not useless, speak my truth—which might just make a difference for somebody else. This is God’s will for me. To step out of victimhood, into the clear and present choices I now have.
Today I am 5989 days sober. I am rejoicing that I can show up and be thankful in all circumstances.
For me—and, for you.
Oh, yes, and Pray continually.
I am praying for you today through it all.
To buy my books, click on the website menu bar at the top of this
