The world tells us we should be happy this time of year - we should be giving thanks. And yet, this is a very challenging time of year for a lot of people. In the midst of hardships and difficulties that one is being asked to carry, it can even feel unrealistic to do so. Today on the podcast, Christa and Jeff are joined by special guest, Pastor Phil Arnold from Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Menomonee Falls and Germantown, Wisconsin. Join us as we discuss the Biblical foundation for gratitude, examples in Scripture of believers who demonstrated thanksgiving during significant trials, and important habits to help cultivate a life of thankfulness. This is a timely episode that will encourage us to direct our eyes to Christ this holiday season and to hang on to the goodness of our God. It is there that you will find the reason to give thanks - even in the most difficult and painful of circumstances.

After listening to this episode, you will be able to answer these questions:

• What are some things that we can remember as believers when we face challenges in life that will help us be able to give thanks?
• How do the meanings of the words “grace” and “mercy” help us to focus on gratitude when otherwise we don't feel so good?
• When we think about different promises that God has made to us in Scripture, what role do those play in us giving thanks?

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