By: Dr. Jeff Fuller
Ever heard someone say, “He can’t see the forest for the trees?” It is an idiom, which is described as “a group of words established by usage as having a meaning not deducible from those of the individual words.” A similar idiom is, “it’s raining cats and dogs.” Another is “the proverbial tree falling in the forest,” such as philosophical question: “if a tree falls with no one to hear it does it still make a sound?”
We have troubles with thanksgiving because sometimes we “can’t see the forest for the trees.” In the midst of hard circumstances or anxious times, it can be difficult to see past the problem in front of is, much less present our requests rationally, clearly, or with thanksgiving.
Therefore, we ask questions. At times we would never dare ask any question out loud. There are many, but I will only list three:
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What is there to be thankful for when you are facing financial crisis?
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Should you not be anxious when the relationship you thought would last forever suddenly, unexpectedly, and with explanation falls apart?
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What is there to rejoice about when you keep falling into the same sin over and over and over again?
In Philippians 4 we find these words:
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” Philippians 4:4-6 (HCSB)
Paul instructs us not to ignore what circumstances come our way. It is quite difficult to ignore circumstances. Yet he is telling is to get a perspective on those circumstances. That is the key; we must get above the circumstances. Take a larger view than just looking down the tunnel of sight we are concentrating on at the moment.
He also adds:
“Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise—dwell on these things.” Philippians 4:8 (HCSB)
Paul is not saying difficulties do not matter, but that they are parts of a larger picture, a world filled with blessings, too. So much more to be thankful for and even in these difficult times it is possible to give thanks.
If you are the midst of difficult circumstances, two things are true:
First, those circumstances are threatening to consume your every though and waking moment. Maybe they have already.
Secondly, in addition to the problems, your life is filled with wonderful blessings you cannot see because your focus is elsewhere.
When you are tempted to worry, thank God for something different. If there is a financial problem, thank God you are alive and healthy. If there is a relationship issue, thank God for loving you more than any person would or could ever love you. If there a sin pattern; then there is a Savior who will help you through with grace and mercy.
Trouble and anxiety are real, but when we pause to recognize and thank God for His blessings in the midst of them, He gives us peace.
“And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7 (HCSB)
Whatever good things you thank about may seem irrelevant, but even if it is for a moment, it is a moment of freedom.
Until next time…