Tomorrow is a major holiday here in the US—Thanksgiving. It is a special celebration for many families, and we are grateful to have been invited into someone’s home to join them. It is a blessing to witness how people take time to express gratitude to God and to one another.
This celebration reminds me of what the Scripture teaches:
1 Thessalonians 5:18 (ESV)
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
It is easy to thank the Lord when life is going smoothly and when prayers are answered the way we expect. But I want to share honestly that in the past few weeks, I struggled with this verse. I went through a season where I felt down, anxious, and uncertain about what was ahead. I focused so much on my worries that I became blind to what God was already doing. I admitted to the Lord my unbelief and asked for His forgiveness.
Looking back, I realize that while I was dwelling on my fears, God was faithfully providing for us every single day—our needs, our housing, our transportation, and even the people He placed around us to help and encourage us.
Before this mission trip, something simple happened that God used to remind me of His care. The night before our flight, the handle of my bag broke. The only replacement I had was a cloth bag my mom gave me from Bohol—not ideal for long travels or formal use. I reluctantly brought it. Later on, during our visit to Austin, we met Doug and Cecil. Our fellowship with them was refreshing—singing hymns, sharing Scripture, and encouraging each other. From their church, I received a black bag that was perfect to use whenever I will attend church. It was a small thing, but it spoke loudly to my heart: God sees even the little needs we do not mention. Going back home the couple has blessed us more with some more stuff before going back to Houston.
Here in Houston, God has also brought many people into our journey— Bro. Ed, Bro. Maynard Bro. Jorge, Sis. Fritzie, Bro. Abe, Bro. Rexie, Sis. Connie, Sis. Angie, Sis. Jojie, Sis. Jen, Sis. Sonia, Sis. Jayne, Sis. Tina, Bro. Francis and Nanay Adelina, and so many names to mention. Through them, we have experienced God’s goodness and provision. He gave me people whom I can open myself share what I feel, how I struggle, and then understand me on what I am going through.
I realized that one thing that kept me from being grateful was my own expectations. I had my own timeline and plans—thinking that certain things should happen at a certain time. When they didn’t, I felt frustrated and even bitter. But the Lord, through His Word, gently reminded me to trust His will instead of insisting on mine.
Today, I stand here with a renewed heart
I see now that all things truly work together for good. And because of that, I can thank the Lord—not only for the blessings I can see, but even for the moments that stretched my faith.
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