Grateful beyond measure

photo by catalepe

I took an early morning walk today. I started walking slowly,then picked up the pace. The air was frigid. I was chilled. But I knew that I'd warm up.

I walked on the sidewalk, up Beall Avenue, and I could hear my footprint crunch on the frozen leaves, frosted white, and crystalized. I was still cold.

As I topped the hill at the shopping plaza, I caught the temperature on the bank sign...25 degrees. Brrrrrrr.

Still, I kept walking. I started walking by listening to Michael W. Smith's Worship Again on my ipod shuffle. I enjoy the songs on that CD. They direct my thoughts to focus on who God is, what He's done for me, and what I want to do for God.

As I completed me loop, I prayed that God would use me to influence people to develop into fullly devoted followers of Jesus in all the nations of the world. I asked for God to impact the world for ten years. Then it occured to me to ask for more years; so I increased my request for godly impact for the next 100 years, the next thousand years, the next million years.

photo by colinpoe

I trust God to keep His influence in the world through His church. He guaranteed it! Read Matthew 16:18, "I will build my church, and the gates of Hades[d] will not overcome it."

So I realized how blessed I am. God has given me salvation--a guaranteed place with Him, one that is forever and ever. God has given me a great family; a loving wife and growing, healthy kids. Even my extended family is a source of joy for me. And to top it all off--my friends bring me joy too. I am grateful beyond measure to God for providing a wonderful life. May He be praised on the earth and in the heavens!

Make time today to get alone and find a quiet spot to reflect. Maybe you'll steal away to a quiet corner in a room, or you'll escape to the backyard, field, or talk a long walk; whatever the venue--think about how blessed you are and offer thanks to God for all that He has provided you. Even if you don't know God that well, speak to Him and share what you are thankful for. Offer thanks. Say thanks to God.