God uses good times AND bad times to shape us into His will. It's our job to praise Him for the good, to trust Him through the bad, and thereby to grow closer to Him.

We often question God when things come along that make us suffer. We often forget God when all is well. It's a battle I face everyday. I want to be able to acknowledge His power in both extremes, and find His will for me through joys and heartaches.

Grateful Prayer

Because You work for the good of those who love You
I say a prayer, a grateful prayer
Because You know our needs better than we do
I say a prayer, a grateful prayer

I whisper Thank you, Lord, for times of ease
When I feel the warmth of Your face upon me
When my heart sings out loud Your name
And I dance through life to proclaim Your glory
For all the goodness You bestow
For tears of joy that overflow
For the taste of heaven here below
Thank You, Father, this is my grateful prayer

(repeat verse)

I cry Thank You, Lord, for trials sweet
That keep me on my knees to seek You
For broken hearts and sleepless nights
When all my fears lie bare before You
For battles waged with satan's charms
For self-made shame and all its harms
Whatever drives me back to Your arms
Holy Father, this is my grateful prayer

For all You give and take away
For Your holy presence day by day
For simply listening now as I pray