A Different Kind of Thanksgiving

I am thankful for being in pain. 
It reminds me we are not long for this world and that what I am doing/going through will not be forgotten.
Revelation 22:12, Hebrew 6:10

I am thankful for the end of my own strength.
When I come to the end, I am forced to rely on Him. I often think I am, but it's only in these spots I see it most purely. He will always - through Him - make a way.
2 Corinthians 12:9, 1 Corinthians 10:13

I am thankful for need. 
I wouldn't have realized how precious His provision is if I hadn't needed it so bad. Did you know a random $18 check in the mail is God's way of letting us provide for our children's wants? Lauren finally say Mockingjay yesterday! The $100 someone gave us unexpectedly allowed me to get something I can eat for Thanksgiving and get hot chocolate at Six Flags - where we got in for free! We even had a free turkey show up at our house! Elijah needed a coat for the cold. 2 were dropped off! Were these crazy, random happenstances?? No. They were our Father providing.
Philippians 4:19, Matthew 6:25-33

I am thankful for those who think we are crazy for following God this way. 
It's funny. We actually get more flack from Christians than from non-Christians for following what God has told us to do - and it's all concerning issues we would expect from those who don't follow Christ! Yes, it's illogical. No, we are not saving away for college, retirement, vacations.... Yes, it's crazy. No, I can't explain. Yes, I often feel you are right.... These all remind me we are following Him, and not the world.
Isaiah 55:8, Romans 14:4

I am thankful for despair.
Without despair, I would never recognize the beauty, peace, and joy of hope. Hope comes alive even brighter when I have recognized the dark. And hope births love. Love for God and love for our fellow man.
Romans 5:1-11, Psalm 71:13-15

I am thankful for waiting.
Yep. That hurts to even type. Waiting has many layers. Like an onion- a stinky onion. You think you've peeled away a layer or two of waiting..... Until you've waited some more. But waiting reminds us we don't know all, can't see all, and know nothing at all! God's timing is perfect. To our eyes, perfectly stinky! But it is the essence and sent of perfection. :-)
Psalm 27:14, Isaiah 40:31

I am thankful for partners.
Yes, that is a good thing of the Lord, but a painful thing to our humanity! It reminds us that we can not do this on our own. That hurts our own pride. But, it also reminds us that with God, all things are possible! Even reaching the most expensive, influential city in the world, with the light of Christ. Even discipling, mentoring, and training young Christian leaders for 2-12 months. What an amazing opportunity, that we can only do through our partners! We are so blessed and thankful by those of you who make our call to God able to happen. Thank you!
Philippians 4:10-20, 2 Corinthians 8:1-15