Gratefulness is more than a temporary emotion; it's a heart posture towards God. When life throws us a curveball, it's easy to forget that "in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28). But it's true just the same.

Let's give thanks when we see the positives and when we don't quite understand how it's working for our benefit, because we know we are to "give thanks in all circumstances" (1 Thessalonians 5:18). We have a loving Father in Heaven that loves to give good gifts to his children. We can trust that even when we don't understand, He is in control and is working it out for us. What are you grateful for today?

Book reference: "The Hiding Place" by Corrie Ten Boom

When Jesus tells us in Matthew 16:24 that in order to be his disciples we must pick up our cross and follow him, he isn't describing a burden we must bear. He is simply asking us to think twice about our level of commitment to Him.

Are we willing to give up our self-centered desires and our own path in life? Are we willing to surrender absolutely every area of our life to God?

He reminds us in Matthew 16:25-26 that "whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it."

What are you willing to lose to follow Jesus? The reward is worth the price!

How many of you jump up and down and praise the Lord during a trial in your life? Not many of us do, but the Bible tells us that we should consider it joy whenever we face trials because the testing of our faith produces perseverance. (James 1:2-3)

Storms may seem unexpected, but they serve a purpose in our spiritual growth. Instead of acting surprised, we should ask the Lord for the strength to get through and realize He is working it out for our good.