Appreciate What You Have

What a great perspective for us to embrace this year, 
especially during this week of Thanksgiving.

I sometimes take things for granted, do you? Acknowledging what I have, however, helps me look above difficult circumstances, disappointments, and fears, and focus on God rather than myself. Being thankful, restores my hope for the future and softens the effects of uncertainty. The truth that makes the greatest difference in my life is that I belong to God. He knows my name, gives me what I need each day, and will never stop loving me. A lifetime will never be long enough to thank Him for the wonderful relationship we share.

Below are some other blessings that came to my mind. What blessings are on your list?

Family

I no longer have parents or aunts and uncles who are alive to love me and encourage me. But I am thankful for my nieces, nephews, and cousins who like to hear my voice, seek my advice, and express their love to me. They know I am there for them, and they fill my life with joy. Some are facing serious crises with their children. This is a fragile time, but I know God has placed me in their lives so I can bring their burdens to my Heavenly Father and ask Him to show them the way when there seems to be no way.

Steadiness

God gives me physical, emotional, mental and spiritual fortitude to accept and deal with whatever happy or sad events spill into my days. By relying on this favorite verse in Psalms, I am able to stay steady.

I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I keep my eyes always on the Lord; with him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

Psalm 16:8, NIV

Praying that your Thanksgiving Day will be memorable for you and your loved ones, in whatever way you celebrate.