This is always a wonderful time of the year. We can take the opportunity to remember to give thanks for the many blessings that we've been given. Sometimes we take these for granted. So, if for nothing else we can reflect on why God has been good to us.There may be someone who says "But this has been a horrible year." And to them it may have been. There may have been sickness, financial problems, etc., but even when these things happen, we can still give thanks to God.I don't know about you but I kind of like it when things go the way I would like for them to. However, they do not always do so. I can get angry, blame God, lose my faith, or I can realize that God has a bigger plan than I presently see.Paul wrote to the church at Rome and said, "And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; 4 and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; 5 and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us." Romans 5:3-5 (NASB). There is a reason behind the bad things that happen in life.James also told us, "Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." James 1:2-4 (NASB).Perhaps the testing, the trials we experience in life, are there to make us stronger in our service to our Master. The sad thing is that we sometimes wallow in pity that these things are happening to us and our God wants to use them so that we will grow to be like Him.So, as you give thanks this week for all that God has done for you, thank God for the trials that come your way. Do not dismiss them as they are serving a purpose. Just remember the wise words "This too shall pass." We won't always have the struggles we do now. Something beautiful awaits the child of God.I am so thankful for ....