In a world gripped by war, economic uncertainty, political division, and constant headlines of injustice and suffering, it’s easy to wonder—where is God in all of this? Have you ever found yourself asking, how can I be thankful in times like these? When everything feels dark, unfair, or overwhelming, gratitude can seem like the last thing on your mind. And yet, that’s exactly when it becomes the most powerful.
Corrie ten Boom’s classic memoir, The Hiding Place, offers a stunning glimpse into the kind of faith that flourishes not in comfort, but in crisis. Her story, along with that of her sister Betsie, is a timeless testament to courage, faith, and the surprising power of thankfulness—even in the most unimaginable circumstances.
The ten Boom family was arrested by the Nazis during World War II for hiding Jews in their Dutch home. Corrie and Betsie were sent to Ravensbrück, a brutal women’s concentration camp. The barracks they were placed in were beyond horrible—filthy, overcrowded, and infested with fleas. The suffering was constant. But in the middle of it all, Betsie challenged Corrie to thank God—not just for the horrible food, or the single Bible page they’d smuggled in, but even for the fleas.
Corrie thought Betsie was crazy. Who would thank God for something that caused so much misery?
But later, they discovered that the guards avoided their flea-infested barracks—meaning they were left alone. Because of that, they were free to hold secret Bible studies, pray with fellow prisoners, and share the hope of Christ without interference or fear of sexual assault. What Corrie once saw as a curse turned out to be a divine shield.
They had only one page of Scripture—but it was enough. Enough to remind them and others that light still shines in the darkness. That hope still triumphs. That God still speaks—even in a concentration camp.
The Transforming Power of Thankfulness
Corrie’s story teaches us that thankfulness isn’t about pretending things are good—it’s about proclaiming that God is still good, even when things aren’t. Here are five powerful truths I’ve found about how gratitude can lift us above our battles:
1. Thankfulness Aligns Our Perspective with God’s
When we give thanks in the midst of hardship, we’re saying, “God, I trust You even when I don’t understand.”
Romans 8:28 reminds us that “In all things God works for the good of those who love Him.”
Betsie’s willingness to thank God for the fleas was her way of surrendering to God’s higher plan.
2. Gratitude Cultivates Inner Peace
Philippians 4:6–7 tells us that prayer mixed with thanksgiving leads to peace that passes understanding.
In the harsh reality of Ravensbrück, the ten Boom sisters experienced supernatural peace—not because the conditions changed, but because their hearts were anchored in gratitude.
3. Thankfulness Inspires Hope and Resilience
Psalm 28:7 says, “The Lord is my strength and my shield… my heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise Him.”
When we choose gratitude, we reinforce our faith and refill our hope. The ten Booms didn’t just survive—they shined.
4. Gratitude Draws Us Closer to God
In dark seasons, we often wonder if God is near. But James 4:8 promises, “Come near to God and He will come near to you.”
Corrie and Betsie encountered God’s presence daily, not in the absence of suffering, but in the middle of it—because they kept thanking Him, trusting Him, and inviting Him in.
5. Thankfulness Transforms Relationships
Gratitude isn’t just for us—it overflows to others. In the flea-infested barracks, thankfulness turned that space into a sanctuary.
Instead of bitterness, they built community. Instead of despair, they spread hope.
God Uses What We Overlook
It’s easy to thank God for the obvious blessings. But the true test of spiritual maturity is when we can thank Him for the things we don’t understand—the delays, the difficulties, the discomforts. Sometimes, what you’re begging God to remove is the very thing He’s using to protect or position you for something greater.
Corrie ten Boom’s story reminds us that gratitude is a spiritual weapon. When used in faith, it defies darkness, repels fear, and declares to every enemy that God is still in control.
So, what are the “fleas” in your life today? That frustrating job? The horrible boss? That closed door? That unanswered prayer?
Don’t despise the discomfort. Instead, look for God’s hidden hand in it. What may seem worthless or painful right now may actually be the very thing keeping you safe, making you stronger, or giving you access to someone who needs your light.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for being good—even when life is not. Teach me to give thanks not just for what I can see, but for what I can’t understand. Like Corrie and Betsie, help me to see Your hand even in the most difficult circumstances. Give me the grace to thank You for the “fleas” in my life—the irritations, the disappointments, the delays—trusting that You are working all things for my good. May my heart stay soft, my spirit stay hopeful, and my life reflect Your faithfulness in every season. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Life-Giving Words of Hope & Encouragement 
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