Keeping a gratitude journal has become a popular thing in the past several years. It's the practice of finding a bit of time each day to write down what you're thankful for. Studies have shown that gratitude can improve your physical and mental health, help you sleep better, and improve your self-esteem.
This really isn't a surprise since we know that gratitude is a key part of our lives of worship and given to us as a command in may places. Here are a few examples: 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Colossians 1:14, Colossians 3:15, Psalm 100:4.
Life is not always easy... maybe it feels like it rarely is for you. But as I was reminded by a friend recently, knowing difficulty can make the joy and gratitude that much deeper and sweeter.
My heart was so full starting this week that I wanted to do what that old chorus told us to do... "Count your blessings, name them one by one; count your blessings see what God has done..."
God has faithfully:
allowed us to gather and encourage each other on Sunday in multiple venues at the same time (car + radio or livestream!)
provided a financial miracle for our church (more on that soon!)
let me see many of your faces as you drove out of the parking lot... my favourite "Lobby Time" ever!
provided a free washer and dryer set for the Freedom Community Centre - we had been praying for this for some cool opportunities coming up in that space!
given me the opportunity to meet and bless my neighbours in ways I haven't ever had the chance to
hear more and more and more stories about conversations you guys are having with your friends, neighbours, co-workers and family members about Christ
And on and on it goes. Sometimes we can name a specific provision, sometimes we celebrate a conversation we've been able to have, sometimes we are grateful for a time of receiving specific direction from the Lord... He blesses in more ways than we can name.
Remember - and I don't say this tritely - that even when the day is dark and you are finding it very hard to count your blessings, you always, always, always have Jesus. Even if things aren't easy or you feel lost or you are anxious and afraid, we always have Him. You are still seen, loved, forgiven, held, kept, redeemed, made whole and being prepared for eternity with Him.
Are you celebrating His goodness and presence in your life?
I'd love to hear about it. Drop me a line any time: tracy@freedomkw.com
One by one,
Pastor Tracy
This Sunday
FAITH IS A VERB
Creation: Faith to Understand
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