It is not difficult to find fault. Every moment, just like every person, has the potential to fail us, and it seems as if those failings and challenges campaign for our attention. If our circumstances dictate our emotions, it takes very little to steal our joy and leave us frustrated, hurt and wishing for something else.

But, what if our circumstances do not really have the power to force us to adopt certain attitudes and responses? What if we have a choice in every moment to retain a spirit of thankfulness? Where would we be then?

In the book of Revelation, we are given an insight into the atmosphere of the throne room of heaven. We catch a glimpse of the power of God’s presence changing attitudes as the beauty of His holiness leads everyone in attitudes and actions of praise and thanksgiving. When God is present, even the dark moments are illuminated by His glory.

If that is God’s plan and purpose for eternity, then those of us who have eternal life through His Son, Jesus Christ, have at our disposal the ability to receive and embrace the power of that glory here and now. We can choose to respond to life with an attitude of praise and thanksgiving that not only sees God in all our circumstances, but also celebrates victory because of His presence. We can rejoice by choice, celebrating the power of God to move mountains into the sea, to walk thought the dark valley with us, and to protect us in the face of fear.

Such an attitude of thanksgiving is not blind to difficult circumstances or painful experiences. Instead, a true thankful spirit chooses to celebrate God in spite of those struggles. Rather than rehearse a litany of failings and frustrations, focusing on the greener grass somewhere else, thanksgiving calls us to center on God’s goodness and love. We are drawn to believe that indeed all things do work together for good for those who love God and called according to His purpose. We do not foolishly say all things are good, but instead, all things lead to good when they are in the hands of God.

This is one of the great truths of the resurrection. In the midst of one of the most evil, painful, horrendous acts in human history, God moved to demonstrate the greatest love. If God moved that way in Jesus’ life, we know that He is moving that way in our lives as well. We can praise the Lord for what He has done and what He is doing. We can even praise Him for what He will do because we know God is faithful.

Thanksgiving is not just about family gatherings, pilgrims and turkey. Thanksgiving is a celebration of life and of God in our lives. Moreover, it is a way of living that leads to life. When we live thankful lives, the power of God moves to give us more reasons for praise and thanksgiving. Our eyes are opened to more of God’s mighty acts and more of His presence. We gain new vision and greater strength.

So today, decide to be thankful. Say, “I am a child of the living God, and I rejoice by choice. I am thankful! Praise the Lord! Amen!