Life is sometimes (to put it mildly) rough—disappointments, arguments, break-ups, and break-downs. We’ve experienced them all. Most of our efforts are spent trying to get out of times like these. When I read Paul’s writings, though, he seems to deal with adversity in a different way.

Paul is not as much focused on avoiding hardship as he is on exploiting hardship. He realises when we steer clear of challenges, we may be avoiding pain, but we’re also avoiding growth.

In Paul’s experience, the most challenging times hold the most fruitful rewards. He tells his congregation in Corinth that our “light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison” (2 Cor 4:17 ESV). Don’t forget that what Paul considers his own “light momentary affliction” is prison, torture, and exposure to death again and again (see 2 Cor 11:23).

Thankfully, Paul clues us in on one of his keys: Gratitude. In 1 Thessalonians, Paul says, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances” (5:16-18 ESV; emphasis mine). Notice that Paul’s instructions are not to be thankful for all circumstances but in all circumstances. Psalm 69:30-32 tells us that pouring gratitude on God can revive a poor, needy heart.

If your heart is weary, confused, or burdened by situations around you, search for something (anything!) you can be thankful for, and let your heart be revived by pouring gratitude on God.

I will praise the name of God with a song;
I will magnify him with thanksgiving.

This will please the Lord more than an ox
or a bull with horns and hoofs.

When the humble see it they will be glad;
you who seek God, let your hearts revive.

Psalm 69:30-32 (ESV)