Thanks Giving in the Hardest Times

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds," 
-James 1:2 

The leaves are turning, the masks and costumes have invaded our stores, and the anxiety, stress and panic of midterms are upon us. My friend's I think it is safe to conclude that Thanksgiving indeed is here. 
Now you might be thinking why I have chosen the verse I did to start this blog post. Here's the thing, I know that we as Christians have been deceived into not believing this verse. Wait... what did he just say?! That as Christians we have been lied to, mislead and misguided to not believe this piece of scripture? Yep that's what I have said. 
You see so many times I have come across Christians who are stuck, who refuse to move, who start turning away and not trusting God, and why? In most cases it has to do with this verse. It is the fact that many people when first coming to faith, and even years into their faith, do not take into account the fact that as Christians we do not belong in this world, we belong to the kingdom of God. And unfortunately this world doesn't really like that. In fact Satan absolutely detests fact that you belong to God. So he throws everything he can at you to make you fall, or trip, or look the other way, or completely leave the whole Christ following life altogether. 
Many Christian's out there when coming across a troubled situation, or unfortunate life circumstances, whether physical, spiritual or mental, tend to blame God for it. The words "forgotten, unloved, not caring, left, and cruel" become common in our vocabulary when coming the topic of faith or God pops up. We sit there and complain and cry, when in reality all we need to do is look at scripture and see that it says; "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28). 
Note the use of the word "ALL", am I saying that everything will be easy when you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior and decide to live a life devoted to Him? Not at all, rather I am saying that no matter what situation, circumstance or place you find yourself in God can and will use it if you let Him. 
So next time you find yourself in that part of life and faith, rather then frowning and asking "why" rather I challenge you to look to God and say, "Thank-you", why? Because if you do I guarantee you that in trust God, in pointing yourself to Him, He will use that situation, circumstance or moment to shape who you are in Him, to help you grow a deeper understand, trust and faith in your eternal father. 
So Happy Thanksgiving everyone, and remember "Give praise with the Thankful heart", whether it seems like it should be thankful or not!