Thanksgiving in hardship is not denial; it’s defiance of despair. Scripture urges us to give thanks “in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18), not for all circumstances. Gratitude reframes our vision so we can see God’s hand at work even when outcomes aren’t clear. Begin by acknowledging the reality of your struggle before God. Then deliberately name three gifts in the middle of it: a person, a provision, a promise. Tie each thanksgiving to a short prayer: “Thank You for this friend’s text; let Your comfort continue.” Create a gratitude liturgy you can repeat: a simple pattern such as read a verse, name a gift, say thank You, make a request. Keep a running list of small evidences of grace—sleep, help, unexpected kindness—and revisit it when discouragement returns. Gratitude doesn’t silence lament; it companions it. You can cry out and give thanks in the same breath. Over time, thanksgiving trains the heart to notice God first, not fear. That shift won’t remove every burden, but it will lighten how you carry it.