Signora Sheila

Can we ever be too thankful? I don’t think so, and I believe the Scriptures back me up. But life is often a struggle, and it is so easy to fall into the habit of fretting, complaining, or even despairing. So let’s learn a lesson from Corrie ten Boom on giving thanks.

Giving thanks in all things

You may already know of the ten Boom sisters, Corrie and Betsy. But if not let me introduce these remarkable middle-aged Dutch sisters.

For the “crime” of hiding Jews the Nazi regime condemned them to the Ravensbrück concentration camp. Only their long years of faith helped them endure the harsh and inhumane conditions. And in a certain way, even thrive. Especially the older sister Betsy, with her unwavering childlike faith and trust.

As the guards herded them into the filthy flea-infested barracks, Corrie cried out. “How can we live in a place like this?”

To which Betsy replied, “Show us, show us how.” Astonished, Corrie realized that her sister was praying, asking God to show them a way. And then she urged “Corrie, reread that chapter we read this morning!”

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

“That’s it! That’s the answer!” Betsy exclaimed. “Let’s start by thanking God for everything about our barracks!” But poor Corrie’s faith wasn’t quite up to that. Looking around the filthy, foul-smelling room she muttered, “Like what?”

So Betsy prayed, thanking God for His blessings – even in that place that seemed so God-forsaken.

“Oh yes Lord, thank you!” Corrie cried. And with a repentant heart, she repeated her sister’s praise as they prayed aloud together.

Thanking God for fleas

And then Betsy continued to thank the Lord, thanking Him even for the fleas. But that was too much for Corrie. “The fleas? No Betsy, not even God could make me grateful for fleas!”

“Give thanks for everything and in all circumstances,” Betsy reminded her. So Corrie thanked God for the fleas, even though she thought her sister was wrong.

Only weeks later did she learn how right Betsy was. The fleas kept the guards from entering the barracks. And gave them the freedom to read the Bible without fear of discovery!’

Give thanks even for fleas?

We all face difficult circumstances, though usually they are not so overwhelming. And it would be easy to give in to worry and despair, as Corrie almost did. And she might have done so, had it not been for Betsy’s unwavering trust and faith.

Look for God’s hand

So let’s remember, like Betsy, to always look for God’s hand in our lives. And remember that:

1. God’s sustaining power will keep us safe even in life’s greatest storms.
2. That He always works all things out for good.
3. God is an everlasting help in the hardest of times.
4. God’s light can illuminate even the darkest places.
5. He wants us to give thanks for everything and in every circumstance.
6. There is no pit so deep that God’s love is not deeper still.

There is no pit so deep that God’s love is not deeper still.

Corrie ten Boom

Betsy found at least 3 things to thank God for – even in the depravity of Ravensbrück. My circumstances aren’t as bleak as theirs, and probably yours aren’t either.

But when things seem bleak, let’s remember that God is always with us, working things out according to His plan. And remember to thank Him in all circumstances, even in flea-ridden hovels! Cultivate a heart of thanksgiving, and always look for God’s hand in your life!

📷 Image credits: woman; Corrie ten Boom by nknown photographer, used under Fair Use