A Scripture devotional can be so powerful, but where do we begin? Getting started reading the Bible is tricky… so we’ve compiled verse reflections like this one with a Bible verse for today to help us connect with God in everyday moments. 

Through Mountains and Valleys

We’re working on entering the new year full of gratitude, with an awareness of God’s goodness.

Abby invites us into this practice, even during difficult times.

Philippians 4:12b-13

“I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” 

Written by Abby Ciona

Sometimes, what I’m thankful for one day, I complain about the next.

One morning, I’m celebrating sunny weather, but the next, I’m complaining about the heat. On Friday, I’m grateful that we finally have rain for the farmers, but Saturday, I’m hoping the rain stops, so I can do things outside. I get excited at the first snowfall of winter, but after a few weeks, I’m cold and wish spring came sooner.

Our thankfulness is often based on superficial things: when we get what we like or things go according to our plans. But it’s hard to feel thankful when we’re lacking or facing uncertainty. How can we choose to be thankful through undesirable circumstances?

In the Bible, Paul, a follower of Jesus, experienced incredibly difficult things (he compiled an impressive list of sufferings in 2 Corinthians 11:23-28). And yet, even while in jail for being a Christian, Paul wrote the encouragement to “rejoice in the Lord always” (Philippians 4:4). 

Paul absolutely had hard times. Yet he knew, since he had Jesus, he had all he truly needed. He recognized that contentment in all circumstances came not from his own strength but from finding strength in Jesus.

Why It Matters

We have eternal hope, unchanging through life’s mountains and valleys. When we focus on that hope, our eyes are opened to God’s constant goodness in our lives. We may not be thankful for all our circumstances, but we can still give thanks in all circumstances because of who God is (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). He is faithful, unchanging, and still working through trials for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

These short simple devotions are a great way to connect with God each day. Visit this page to find more good Bible verses to reflect on!