Corrie Ten Boom, in The Hiding Place, relates an incident that taught her an important principle. She and her sister, Betsy, had just been transferred to the worst German prison camp they had seen yet, Ravensbruck.

Upon entering the barracks, they found them extremely overcrowded, and flea infested. Their Scripture reading that morning in 1 Thessalonians had reminded them to rejoice always, pray constantly, and give thanks in all circumstances. Betsy told Corrie to stop and thank the Lord for every detail of their new living quarters. Corrie at first flatly refused to give thanks for the fleas, but Betsy persisted. She finally succumbed.

During the months spent at that camp, they were surprised to find how openly they could hold Bible study and prayer meetings without guard interference. It was several months later when they learned that the guards would not enter the barracks because of the fleas.²

There are times in our lives when we refuse to be thankful, especially when something is uncomfortable or causing us pain. We rarely feel inclined to thank God for the traffic on the freeway, the unhappy clients at work, the tantrums our toddlers have, or the unexpected illnesses that keep us from doing all the things we need to do. However, I have learned to sit and listen in the discomfort, because even there, God is present. Just like the fleas allowed Corrie and Betsy to freely share the Gospel and worship with others, our uncomfortable circumstances could also lead to something greater.

The tantrums my two-year-old throws is developing patience and love in me, and also teaching me how to discipline effectively. Common illnesses have forced me to slow down and spend time with God. The difficult client at work has led me to prayer. Listening to worship songs in the traffic has allowed me to have the most meaningful times with my Heavenly Father.

The next time you find yourself in unpleasant circumstances, thank God for that and ask Him to draw near and show you His will. Everything in the life of a Christian has a purpose. Let’s take a moment to thank God for the “fleas” today.

Suggested prayer: Lord, in every moment you are there. Every feeling I experience, you see and want me to tell you all about it. Thank you for all the nuisances I encounter every day. Instead of complaining, help me be thankful for all that you are doing in the middle of it. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

1. Colossians 3:17 (NLT).

2. Corrie Ten Boom, The Hiding Place.

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.