Thanksgiving in Trials: How to Rejoice Amid Global Uncertainty and Trust God’s Deliverance

In times like these, when the world faces intense crisis—the Israel-Gaza war, Russia-Ukraine conflict, food shortages, and increasing poverty—it is easy to feel overwhelmed by despair. These global events, coupled with personal struggles, can lead us to question whether there is any hope for peace, provision, or joy. However, the Bible reminds us that even in our darkest moments, we are called to thank, rejoice, and worship God, trusting that He will come through for those who rely on Him.

The Power of Thanksgiving in Trials

Thanksgiving is not just a ritual or obligation—it is a powerful act of faith that shifts our perspective from our circumstances to God’s faithfulness. It declares that, despite the challenges around us, we believe that God is sovereign, good, and able to deliver us from any situation. Habakkuk 3:17-18 gives us a vivid picture of what this looks like:

"Though the fig tree does not blossom, and there is no fruit on the vines, though the yield of the olive fails, and the fields produce no food, though the flock is cut off from the fold and there are no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will shout in exultation in the victorious God of my salvation." (Habakkuk 3:17-18 AMP)

Here, the prophet describes a situation where every source of provision has dried up—no crops, no animals, no food. Yet, in the face of such devastation, Habakkuk chooses to rejoice in God. He doesn’t wait for the situation to change; he worships in the middle of it, trusting that God is still in control.

Confidence in God's Promises

One of the reasons we can be thankful, even in hardship, is our confidence in God’s promises. The Bible is filled with assurances that God will never leave or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). His plans for us are for good and not for evil, to give us hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). No matter how chaotic the world becomes, God remains our solid rock.

The book of Isaiah captures this confidence beautifully. In Isaiah 42:10-13, we are called to sing a new song to the Lord, declaring His praise throughout the earth. Even in the wilderness—where there is barrenness and desolation—God calls us to lift up our voices and glorify Him.

"Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise from the end of the earth, ye that go down to the sea, and all that is therein... Let them give glory unto the LORD, and declare his praise in the islands. The LORD shall go forth as a mighty man, he shall cry, yea, roar; he shall prevail against his enemies." (Isaiah 42:10-13 KJV)

These verses remind us that God is not distant or unaware of our struggles. He goes forth as a mighty warrior, ready to prevail against His enemies. Even in the most desolate places, God is at work. He is stirring things up behind the scenes, and His deliverance is sure.

Trusting God to Come Through

When we give thanks in the middle of trials, we are acknowledging that our trust is not in human solutions, but in God’s ability to deliver us. Throughout the Bible, we see countless examples of God rescuing His people when all hope seemed lost. Joseph was sold into slavery by his own brothers, yet God elevated him to a position of power in Egypt. Daniel was thrown into a lion’s den, but God shut the mouths of the lions. The same God who delivered these men is still at work today.

Psalm 34:19 tells us, "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all." This doesn’t mean we won’t face hardship—in fact, we’re told to expect it. But it does mean that God will not abandon us in our trials. He will walk with us through the fire and bring us out on the other side, stronger and more reliant on Him.

Practical Steps for Thanksgiving and Trust

How, then, can we cultivate a heart of thanksgiving and trust during difficult times? Here are some practical steps:

1. Reflect on God’s past faithfulness: Take time to remember how God has come through for you in the past. This will build your faith for the present.

2. Worship daily: Even when you don’t feel like it, choose to worship God. Whether through singing, prayer, or reading Scripture, focus on His greatness rather than your problems.

3. Stay rooted in the Word: Fill your mind with God’s promises by reading and meditating on Scripture. Let the truth of God’s Word replace the lies of fear and doubt.

4. Surround yourself with a community of faith: During challenging times, it’s important to have people who can encourage you, pray for you, and remind you of God’s goodness.

5. Be honest with God: It’s okay to pour out your frustrations, fears, and doubts to God. He can handle your emotions, and when you bring them to Him, He offers peace in return.

God Will Come Through

In a world that is full of chaos and uncertainty, the greatest act of faith we can offer is to thank God in advance for His deliverance. When we choose to rejoice in Him, even when our circumstances are bleak, we are demonstrating our confidence in His power and goodness. As Psalm 100:4 says, "Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and bless His name."

God has not forgotten you, and He has not lost control of the situation. He will come through for those who trust and rely on Him. As we lift our eyes to the Lord, we will find peace, hope, and strength to endure whatever comes our way.

Image: Unsplash