thanks to God for everything

everything.
for rain when it's needed, and when I can't understand why. For unemployment and for work. For relational stress and the much sweeter resolution.

Why would I thank God for trouble? It's a commandment, for one. Is it easy? No. But it's an affirmation that God is in control of my life, and that He sees infinite universes, times, outcomes - and that He will ultimately bring these things together for good.

Not that it's not hard, or that I feel happy all the time. Not that I like being materially poor. Not that I can go into the grocery store without wishing that I could buy organic or "extras" like crackers, cookies, ice cream, mangoes, avacados, my husband's favorite soda. Not that I don't feel jealous when friends and family members buy their first homes, have adorable babies, remodel beautifully, and haven't ever been to a secondhand clothing store.

But I'm choosing to allow my tears to fall down, and thanking God for the many ways He holds my life together. Perhaps part of the plan will be revealed to me, but even if it isn't, I'll still trust. I'll still rejoice in the little things.

The joy of the Lord is my strength.