Living a Thankworthy Life: Finding Thankfulness Amidst Challenges

1 Peter 2:19 (KJV)
For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.

Lately, it feels like the world just won’t let up. Political unrest, rising prices, unpredictable health concerns—and that’s just the outside stuff. Many of us are also walking through personal storms: marriages under pressure, kids going off course, bills piling up, and hearts weighed down by grief or disappointment. And in all of this, God asks us to live with thankfulness.

Whew. That’s not always easy.

But here’s what I’ve learned: even in hard times, God’s goodness doesn’t stop. His presence is still near. His blessings, though sometimes quiet, continue to show up in our lives. He keeps us, protects us, and strengthens us—even when everything feels shaky. That’s worth giving thanks for.

Now, I’ll be honest with you—there are times I haven’t responded to hardship in a way that honors God. Sometimes I feel completely justified in being upset or responding harshly when I feel wronged. But then I come back to this verse in 1 Peter. It says it’s thankworthy—commendable, pleasing to God—when we endure grief for doing what’s right. That hit me differently the more I sat with it.

It’s not about pretending everything is okay. It’s about keeping our eyes on Jesus, who suffered more than we can imagine and didn’t retaliate. He trusted the Father and kept walking forward. That’s the example we follow. And through Him, we’re empowered to live a life that’s full of thanksgiving, even when life feels unfair or painful.

So today, let’s keep it real. Let’s talk to God about the hard stuff—but let’s also choose to thank Him right in the middle of it. That’s the kind of thankfulness that touches Heaven.

A Prayer for a Thankworthy Life

Dear Merciful Father,
You know the weight of my heart and the struggles I face.
Sometimes I don’t respond the way I should—and I’m sorry.
Help me endure with grace, just like Jesus.
Give me the strength to suffer well and glorify You in my response.
Let my life reflect a spirit of thankfulness, even in the midst of pain.
And may every word and action bring honor to Your holy name.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.