Faith & Insight: Give thanks and let God work in all circumstances

Few, if any, have suffered more for the Christian faith than the Apostle Paul. Still, instead of grumbling, Paul sang God's praises. He wrote, "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Not all circumstances may be God's will, however the giving of thanks in all circumstances is.

Consider Habakkuk's stunning statement:

"Though the fig tree does not bud

and there are no grapes on the vines,

though the olive crop fails

and the fields produce no food,

though there are no sheep in the pen

and no cattle in the stalls,

yet I will rejoice in the Lord,

I will be joyful in God, My Savior."

Into every life comes blessing and tribulation. Too often, like the nine cleansed lepers, we fail to thank God for our amazing blessings. Too often we grumble through our trails rather than trusting God to work all things together for our good.

Count your many blessings: country, home, health, career, family, friends and more. These are tough times for most, but "even if the fig tree does not bud" rejoice and give thanks to our Savior, God's indescribable gift. If we have only Him, we are rich. With Jesus we have forgiveness, abundant life and heaven. We are co-heirs with Christ. Thank God in all circumstances.

• Ken Haskins is pastor of First Christian Church in Carson City.