Most of the iconic protagonists from our favorite video game franchises get placed in some pretty unfair situations that would be fairly difficult to appreciate… but the truth is nobody would be interested in playing a game about a plumber who just travels to people’s homes and unclogs their toilets or a furry blue hedgehog who lounges around all day eating chili dogs. The adversaries that pulled them out of their places of comfort and the unpleasant circumstances that pressed them into service may not seem like something to be grateful for on the surface, but the only reason we all know who Mario and Sonic are is because these unwanted predicaments were thrust upon them. The worst things they have endured are actually the BEST things that ever happened to them, and that’s something to be thankful for.
Counting the blessings that make our lives more comfortable and enjoyable is easy, but being grateful and thankful for those situations that cause us discomfort doesn’t come naturally to any of us. But when the Bible tells us to give thanks in ALL things, it is reminding us that even the unpleasant challenges we face in life serve purposes that we should be thankful for, knowing the Lord will use them to press us into our best destiny. Let’s be thankful and bless our enemies… we can’t get where we are going without them.
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28
Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Colossians 3:15
