Happy Monday.
“Count your blessings, Name them one by one;
Count your blessings, See what God hath done;
Count your blessings, Name them one by one;
Count your many blessings, See what God hath done.”
– from the hymn “Count Your Blessings”
Are you counting your blessings as the hymn suggests? The British evangelist Rodney “Gipsy” Smith said of this hymn, “Men sing it. Boys whistle it. Mothers rock babies as they sing it.”
This past Thanksgiving, I found myself so glad to have a season set aside to concentrate on being grateful. This has come very easily to me this past week.
The changing of the seasons happens ever so slowly in Texas. Our trees are still at the height of fall color. While driving in the area this week, I have gasped at the burnt oranges, reds, and golds and have realized once again that the firmament shows God’s handiwork. I could not help but to say over and over, “Thank you, Lord, for the beauty You made for us to enjoy.” I think God smiled because our praise pleases Him. I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving. This also shall please the Lord better than an ox or bullock that hath horns and hoofs. – Psalm 69:30-31
Then I asked myself, “Why not see that beauty every day, even in things that I might not really call beautiful? It all comes from His hand!” Just as it did for Paul and Silas when they sang praises in the midnight hour, it will open our prison doors—doors of worry, care, and discontent.
Look for the beauty. It works! Try it!
“I Am Thankful”
“For the spouse who complains that dinner is late,
Because it means he is at home with me.
For the teen who complains of chores,
Because it means he isn’t out on the streets.
For the clothes that are a little snug,
Because it means I have enough to eat.
For the lawn that needs mowing, the windows that need cleaning,
Because it means I have a home.
For the complaints I hear about government,
Because it means I have freedom of speech.
For the lady behind me who sings off key,
Because it means I can hear.
For the alarm that goes off too early,
Because it means I am alive!”
– Author Unknown
Every negative usually has a positive, and it can be found easily if we will just look. Be thankful.
by Beverly Hyles
From the Mondays with Beverly blog. Reprinted with permission.
