Faith in everyday life
Thanks is not pretending everything is easy. It is naming what is actually good — a friend, a meal, that you woke up. The soul forgets quickly. Paul: give thanks in all circumstances. Not for all of them. One thing at a time is enough, also between mail and bills.
Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus toward you.
What it means
Var alltid glada, be utan uppehåll och tacka Gud i allt. Det står i allt — inte för allt. Du behöver inte vara glad över det svåra. Du kan ändå tacka mitt i det.
How you can live it
I en jobbig dag: en tack-mening (någon som lyssnade, mat, en vers) och en bön. Inte fejk-glädje.
Praise the LORD, my soul, and don’t forget all his benefits; who forgives all your sins; who heals all your diseases; who redeems your life from destruction; who crowns you with loving kindness and tender mercies;
What it means
Remind yourself: do not forget the good that has already happened. He forgives, he heals, he saves your life — and puts mercy on you where shame wanted to sit. You do not have to feel gratitude to say thank you.
How you can live it
Name three good things you have received, even on a grey day.
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.
What it means
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts. Be thankful.
How you can live it
When the house is tense: ask peace to rule in you first. One thankful sentence helps.
A prayer
Thank you, God, for one thing today. Teach my soul not to forget the good. Amen.