What about the circumstances in our lives that are not blessings? What about our struggles, our pains, our grief, our loneliness, and our pasts? God knows that living in this world is not easy. He does not expect us to deny our problems or pretend all is well when it is not. Instead, He expects us to invite Him into our pains and then let genuine thanksgiving well up from our hearts. The Lord is our refuge and strength; our present help in times of trouble. He is with us and always faithful to His Word. As we thank God for His presence and His promises, we can open our hearts to receive His peace, a peace that surpasses all understanding. Have you ever experienced this type of peace? Seek God to find out! — Philippians 4:6-7