What an amazing time of year it is! As
we’re running errands, planning get-togethers, cooking meals and
wrapping gifts, it is my hope that we don’t forget to take joy with us.
I heard a powerful statement the other day: “What if you woke up today with only the things you thanked God for yesterday?” Within
moments it was evident to me that God can use as little as 15 words to
vault me into a more highly sensitized awareness of “I’m still breathin’
thinking”.. Not only do these words carry a poignant message of
gratefulness and humility, they also come with a challenge that I hope
we all as Christ followers are challenged to consider.
Just
for today…designate a couple moments to reflect on what you’re grateful
for. Keep an ongoing “gratitude list” to remind yourself of both the
calming and chaotic moments of life, that we’re really more blessed than
we often consider.
Reflecting further on these thoughts, my own gratitude list immediately grew. My top gratitude list items include…
- My great God, who daily affords me “Mercies which are new every morning” (Lam 3:22,23)
- Jesus – who not only is the Lord of the universe… but the King over my life! Wow, simply… amazing!
- My wife of 25 years and best friend - Laurie, and an amazing son that I’m so proud of and grateful for - Shawn Jr. (see picture)
- For one of the most loving and amazing groups of people you’ll find anywhere… the incredible family of New Venture Christian Fellowshi
- Having a place to call home, a bed to sleep in, food in the cupboard
- Health (for me - that’s a miracle and a real big deal!)
- Vehicles
- And the list goes on…
But
then I thought…if this was all I was grateful for, I’d be forgetting
all the countless other blessings the Lord graciously gives to me… and
they’re everywhere! James 1:17 says: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father… Although
our circumstances may change from time to time, our joy doesn’t have
to. During these busy moments (be it at Christmas time, or just
everyday living), take time out for God. And start counting - your
blessings.
A
wise person once said that the quickest way to realize you’re rich is
to count our blessings. Thinking about that – I’m feeing like God’s
answer to Donald Trump or Bill Gates about now! The Bible says that
“the JOY of the Lord is our strength” (Neh. 8:10). Begin with how you’ve
been blessed and you’ll get there a lot quicker. Are you ready? Let’s
start counting… “Two eyes to see, two hands to write, one mind to
believe, one heart to love and one life to live out His message”.
Feeling better? Don’t stop now – there’s a long list left to go.
May your joy light the world this season and always!
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