“…give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18
This morning as I was dropping off my oldest son at preschool, another mom said in passing “Hi! How are you?” My answer was “COLD!” The temperature outside was in the 20s, and I had left my gloves behind. I was feeling at that moment like my fingers might fall off! As we both continued to walk our opposite directions, I thought about how that answer sounded. đŸ˜¦ I immediately remembered the verse “Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God…” Philippians 2:14-15a.
Have I been complaining about the frigid temperatures? Mmm…maybe a bit. So, I made myself give thanks for the cold weather today. I decided to intentionally think about things that I like about this time of year in the north. Here’s just a few:
- No big, pesky bugs & bees.
- No mowing lawns every weekend.
- No significant mold problems in most houses because the cold freezes it (I was once told).
- The germ fighter factor. A pediatrician told a group of us once that taking kids who are suffering from sickness outside and letting them breathe in the cold air for at least 20 minutes will clear up many illnesses. Could it be true? If so, I’m especially thankful!
- A wardrobe change – I love to get out something ‘fresh’ to wear every six months, and I enjoy sweaters and jeans.
- More excuses to stay in and snuggle with my family in warm blankets!
- The excitement and anticipation of snow, which every once in awhile will give us a day off (now, I’m especially thankful for those days!!!).
- A new appreciation for spring when it does arrive; the change of seasons reflects new fun adventures with new weather patterns, and I LOVE that.
Now, I may not like the winter all that much and all the bundling that’s necessary to even step foot out of our house. But, I can legitimately thank God for the winter and truly mean it. I love not having to do yard work during this time! I love to watch my kids faces light up at the chance of snow! I love to cuddle up with my husband in a big blanket while we watch a movie. I can say “Thank You, God! Thank You for winter. Thank You for changing season! Thank You, even for the cold.”
He gives me the ability to refocus my mind, change my heart, and turn my complaining into praise. Try it today – what are you experiencing that is making you grumble? Think about it again and what is good about it – then give thanks. For, this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus!
VALGOOD 