Embracing Gratitude in our Writing During Life’s Surprises

by Kennita "Kay" Williams

Life often leads us down unanticipated paths, filling our journeys with unexpected changes that can leave us anxious or discouraged. During these moments, the challenge to “give thanks in all things” can feel daunting. Yet, by trusting in God’s plan, even when life takes unforeseen turns, we can find purpose, peace, and joy amidst uncertainty. Ephesians 5:20 encourages us: “…giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ…” Through gratitude and faith, we allow God to transform the unexpected into blessings that help us grow.

This lesson became profoundly real for our family a few years ago. As a military family, relocations were expected, but we were unprepared when my husband received orders to move from Florida to Alaska. We loved our life in Florida—a close-knit community, familiarity, and a warm climate. Alaska felt like a world apart: remote, with long, cold winters and limited daylight. We were filled with mixed emotions: excitement, anxiety, and uncertainty.

Initially, the move felt overwhelming, yet God called us to trust Him in the unknown. Reflecting on that journey now, I see how it taught us about gratitude in the face of unexpected change. Each challenge became an opportunity to lean into faith, drawing us closer to God and each other. Moments of uncertainty turned into lessons in trust, resilience, and joy, strengthening our family.

If you’re navigating a sudden change, you’re not alone. Here are seven ways to seek God’s plan in the unexpected and practical ways to express gratitude, even when life doesn’t go as planned.

7 Ways a Writer Can Find God’s Plan in Unexpected Change

1. Seek God’s Purpose in the Change

When faced with unexpected situations—relocations, job transitions, or health diagnoses—it’s natural to question why. Instead of letting the “why” consume you, ask, “What can I learn from this?” or “How can God use this experience to grow me?” Trust that God sees the bigger picture and that these detours can lead us closer to His purpose.

For our family, moving to Alaska introduced us to a different pace of life and helped us appreciate God’s creation in new ways. We enjoyed adventures in Alaska’s wilderness, reminding us that God’s purpose often differs from our plans, yet is always for our good.

2. Cultivate a Heart of Gratitude in the Unfamiliar

In times of uncertainty, one powerful response is gratitude. Rather than focusing on discomfort, seek moments where God’s blessings are evident. Gratitude acknowledges hardship while recognizing gifts amid struggle.

In Alaska, we started a family gratitude practice, recording daily blessings. From witnessing the Northern Lights to making new friends, each moment of gratitude brought us closer to God’s peace, helping us shift our focus from worry to appreciation.

3. Pray with an Open Heart

Prayer is our direct line to God, especially during unexpected changes. When facing twists and turns, pray not just for what you want but also for what God may want to show you. Ask for peace, wisdom, and faith to trust His plan.

As a family, we prayed for guidance during our move to Alaska. Those prayers anchored us in His will, providing stability and peace as we navigated the unfamiliar. Opening our hearts in prayer allowed us to release fears and embrace the transition.

4. Find Joy in New Experiences

Change often brings discomfort but also opens doors to new experiences and growth. Embrace opportunities to try new things, meet people, and explore. Sometimes, what we resist brings unexpected joy and reveals parts of God’s plan.

Moving to Alaska offered experiences we never had in Florida. We found joy in dog sledding, hiking, and watching the salmon run. By focusing on new opportunities, we transformed our initial fears into excitement.

5. Focus on Growth Over Comfort

Change often challenges our comfort zones, but God uses these moments to grow us. Growth rarely happens in familiar places; embrace discomfort, knowing God is with you.

For our family, adapting to Alaska’s harsh winters was a challenge but taught us resilience. We learned to appreciate the long summer days and the value of warmth. This discomfort helped us grow in ways that a predictable life never could.

6. Serve Others as a Reflection of God’s Love

In times of change, serving others can shift our focus from our challenges to the needs around us. Acts of kindness remind us of God’s love and help us see that we’re not alone.

In Alaska, we reached out to other military families new to the area, building a support system. Helping others reminded us of God’s presence and the joy of sharing love, even in uncertain times.

7. Reflect on God’s Faithfulness in the Past

Remembering how God has guided us through past challenges can bolster our confidence for the future. Reflect on times when God’s provision saw you through or when difficulties ended with unexpected blessings. These reminders of His faithfulness strengthen our trust in His care.

Looking back on our Alaskan adventure, I see how God led us. What began as a daunting transition became a season rich with growth, resilience, and faith. Our family bonded, our trust in God deepened, and we discovered unforeseen blessings.

Embracing God’s Plan in the Unexpected

Finding God’s plan in unexpected change is a journey of faith, gratitude, and growth. Each time we choose gratitude, pray, and look for His purpose, we step closer to understanding His will. Remember, God is with us, guiding us through every twist. Even when the end result isn’t clear, we can trust that His plan unfolds for our good. Embrace faith, release fear, and allow God to transform the unexpected into a chapter of joy and grace. In times of change, may we find the courage to trust His plan and the gratitude to see His blessings, even in uncertainty.

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Dr. Kennita “Kay” Williams is a Visionary Leadership Coach, Author, Resilience Expert, and Wellness Advocate. Through her Business/Ministry, Clear Vision, she empowers leaders to navigate challenges, gain clarity, and lead with purpose. Dr. Kay’s mission is to inspire wholeness and healing. She can be contacted at www.clearvisionleader.com.