the depth of FOR

As many of you have read the past months have been full of joy, heartache, and the emotions that come from rejoicing in a new season, yet having it end all too abruptly and oh, so silently.   I want to be yielded to God’s plan and in the midst of this struggle God has met us in ways I believe we can only be met through pain.  As my son rejoiced with Jesus we were giving thanks in tears, for we know this is God’s will for us:

Always rejoice, constantly pray, in everything give thanks.  For this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.  1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Fast-forward …  now a few months.

Just a few days ago I was wondering what God was getting ready to do.  There was potential for us to move, potential for us to be in Flagler all our lives.  Perhaps there would be a job, but maybe not.  Nothing seemed secure and as I jumped on the elliptical that morning God brought to my attention the need to thank him FOR everything, not just IN everything.

Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.   Ephesians 5:20

The tears began to fall.  At first I could barely say the words.  Thanking God FOR taking Eben home was a much bigger thing, it seemed, than thanking him in the midst of it.  As I began to thank him for the care he’s given us over the last 6 months, knowing Eben is so fulfilled and taken care of, a calm took over and I could say the words a little bit louder and with more conviction.   I’d not realized the depth of thanking him FOR ‘til that moment.