Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. – Colossians 3:15
Thank you. Two simple words which can have a significant impact not only on the receiver but on the giver of the words as well. The one who is thankful is choosing to shift his focus from that which he does not have or cannot change to what he has, is blessed with, and enjoying.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.- Phillipians 4:6
When I pause to reflect on my present and past blessings from God, the giver of all good gifts (James 1:17), my mind is more clearly focused on that which I should truly petition and request in prayer. I am more apt to see life in the proper perspective.
I was challenged several years ago to write a list of 100 things that I was thankful for. It was truly a sweet time of reflection to think on at least 100 people, circumstances, and experiences for which I was thankful. I hope that this simple exercise in gratitude will spur you to do likewise.
Graciousness is caught in addition to being taught. I realize more and more that my actions speak so much louder than my words. I want to live out a life that is authentically gracious and obedient to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, so that I am modeling a life that I want my children to pursue.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking time out of your full day to read this blog.
Here is my list in no particular order.
- for life
- my husband and best friend, Ron
- our children
- my parents
- my wonderful sister and her husband
- all of my in laws
- my nieces and nephews
- our family’s collective health
- salvation in Jesus Christ
- forgiveness
- the ability to read
- access to almost any book in the world
- my Bible
- a good nights sleep
- our home
- two cars (yes, we now are a two car family once again)
- fresh fruit and vegetables
- my church
- friends
- furniture
- our ministry together
- my gym
- Emily’s artwork
- quiet time in prayer and Bible study
- throwing the football with Joshua
- toothpaste and a toothbrush
- water and warm showers
- access to good healthcare
- Target, Walmart, Ross, and Michael’s
- mercy
- hope
- a future
- my grandparents and extended family
- autumn (my favorite time of year)
- mentors in the faith
- a baby boy on the way for friends who have tried for seven years to have a baby
- hiking
- kayaking
- camping
- mail and packages from Nana…and Amazon
- God’s provision!
- education and the ability to learn
- soy vanilla lattes
- Costco
- time to spend with those we love
- freedom
- missions
- road trips
- Jesus’ unending pursuit of my heart
- Jefri and Jasmine (our Compassion children)
- a camera and photographs of memories
- a dining room table to eat at with my family and friends
- a bed
- clothes and shoes that fit
- writing opportunities
- a purpose
- good music
- vegan mayonnaise
- dancing
- chiropractic care
- naps
- holidays
- protein powder
- Auburn University and my experience there
- University of South Florida and all that I learned
- groceries and money to pay for them
- a washer and dryer
- wifi and a computer
- the Grand Canyon- hiked it four times and it never gets old
- science
- Classical Conversations
- homeschooling
- organization
- Emily learning to read!!!
- electricty and indoor plumbing
- travel
- children’s books
- my memory
- thrift stores and consignment shops
- my weaknesses because when I am weak then He is strong
- Chick Fila, Chipolte, and Olive Garden
- second chances and lessons learned the first time
- that first impressions aren’t always accurate (Amen?)
- laughter
- the beach
- the moutains
- my coffee maker
- Christian apologetics resources
- funny YouTube videos
- my workout playlist
- Colorado Pinion Pine Cones (pictured above)
- mom’s red velvet cake
- Christmas movies
- Christmas tree farms
- flowers
- the sun and moon
- Easter
- free will
- love
Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. ~1 Chronicles 29:13
