Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. — 1 Thessalonians 5:18, NIV
Is it possible to give thanks in ALL circumstances as the Bible instructs us to do? Absolutely, and these grateful children who live in poverty prove it!
While poverty brings challenges like hunger and fear, these Compassion kids are still giving thanks — especially for you. Here are five reasons these precious little ones are thankful today.
Reason #1: You
Children in Compassion’s child sponsorship program around the world are thankful that you kept them in your care and prayers, even during your own difficulties. As a child sponsor, you provided life-changing care and hope — as you can see in the video above.
Not yet a child sponsor? Learn more about child sponsorship.
Reason #2: A Full Belly
Bhorsha from Bangladesh holds lentils and oil — some of the groceries that helped sustain her family during their most desperate season. Bhorsha and her twin sister, Asha, live with their single mother. For a time, the young mother was jobless, unable to provide for the two growing girls.
But through Compassion’s program, the twins — whose names mean “hope” and “trust” in Bengali — and their mom received nutritious food and hygiene supplies. And because the sisters were identified as highly vulnerable, their family also received a monthly stipend to make up for the lost income.
Reason #3: A Safe Home
After her father lost his job, young Deneilis’ family was evicted from their home in Colombia. They moved into a two-bedroom house where 11 other people lived. Deneilis’ family had to wait for the others to go to bed before they could pull out old mattresses and sleep on the living room floor.
When Compassion staff came to check on Deneilis, they were shocked by her low weight, skin allergies and living situation. But thanks to people like you who give through Compassion, the staff was able to build Deneilis’ family a new home. And they painted it her favorite color, pink.
“I feel so happy with my new bed. I like everything in my house! Thanks to all who helped us to have our home.” — Deneilis
Reason #4: Family
Pawaret’s elephant isn’t just a member of the family — it’s also the family’s livelihood. Pawaret’s father, Jaw-la-tu, earns a living by giving elephant rides to tourists.
But providing for his family has been increasingly tough. The past pandemic reduced tourism in Thailand, reducing his income too. And droughts have made food harder to get than ever. However, Compassion staff have continued to provide nourishing food, care and encouragement to the family.
“We are so thankful for the child sponsorship program that never left us feeling alone. It’s like there’s always a family that cares for us in a hard time.” — Jaw-la-tu
Reason #5: God’s Love
With no income and living in a community with few opportunities for employment, young mother Denke wondered how she and her baby daughter, Koket, would make it.
Although she and her daughter were part of Compassion’s Survival program in Ethiopia, Denke wasn’t sure how far Survival staff would go to help them.
Not only did Denke and Koket receive the food and medical care they needed, but Denke was introduced to God’s love, giving her strength despite the hardships. This support and strength continue to help Denke during the hard moments of motherhood.
And little Koket? She’s thankful to be thriving!
“I am thankful for people around me, especially the Survival staff, who never get tired of supporting me. My baby girl just turned one, and if you look at her, she looks like she is raised by a wealthy mother. She is healthy and strong.” — Denke
No matter our circumstances, these children remind us that gratitude is possible. Why not follow in their footsteps and express gratitude today? Take a moment to consider what you’re thankful for, then share that thankfulness with your heavenly Father.
