White Roses: Can we really be thankful in all circumstances?

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

—1 Thessalonians 5:18

It was time to throw out the sad bouquet of pink and white roses, its yellowing leaves falling off and petals turning brown around the edges. I moved the vase to the counter next to the sink and began to lift out the flowers. With a closer look, I noticed that the entire bouquet was not bad. Carefully, I pulled out the good roses, which happened to be white, and placed them in individual vases that I set in various places around my home.

I thought about how sometimes our life situation is like a sad bouquet. Maybe our marriage is falling apart, our health failing, or we’ve experienced the loss of a job or loved one. We wish we could throw out the whole matter. But it is beyond our control. And we wonder, Where is God in all this? Why is He allowing these things to happen when He has the power to stop it?

The Bible says, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

But how can we be thankful in these times?

Maybe we need a closer look. What is “good” in the situation? Are there white roses we can pull out?

Has God sent a caring nurse, a pastor, or a therapist? Have loved ones encouraged, supported, and prayed for us? Has God provided financially and in other ways? These are all “good” and worthy of gratitude.

Praying continually and giving thanks in all circumstances is God’s will for us (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18). He wants us to communicate with Him about everything, the good and the bad. When we are in constant contact with Him, He will draw closer to us than any storm ever could. He will never leave us nor forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6). We can trust Him no matter what happens, for “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).

We may never understand why adverse circumstances occur, but we can be certain of God’s goodness. And could it be that He allows these things to happen to show Himself faithful? I think it’s worth a closer look.

Do you see the white roses? Can you pull out the good from your sad bouquet?

Dear Lord, You are good and Your love endures forever (Psalm 100:5). May my eyes always be open to Your good work and my heart be ever grateful. Amen.