Where are the Blessings?

FaithWalkDaily September 24, 2008

But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.
~ 1 John 1:7, NLT

My friend called me this morning to firm up our plans to get together tomorrow. She is my mentor and walks me through my dark times (which lately seem to be far more than the light!) She said, "can I talk tomorrow..." Yea! My turn to listen.

What a stark reminder of the blessing I have in her friendship: we lift one another up to walk side by side in the tumult. There are those who come to me to be heard and I can shut up and listen. More often I find I'm the one doing the talking. Either talking to educate or talking to dump my own garbage to make room for more of God's filling. I'm looking forward to sitting on the other side for a change. The question of the day, "where are the blessings?"

I spend an awful lot of time considering the troubles of the world. As a prayer warrior, it's what I do. I pray for the needs of the faithful. They don't ask me to pray when their children are healthy and walking in God's grace. They don't ask me to pray when their loved ones are all doing well. They don't ask me to pray when their bank account is overflowing and they're trying to figure out which ministry to share their blessings with. They don't ask me to pray when their new car is shiny, their new home is built, their land is fruitful, or when their churches are filled to capacity.

The faithful ask for prayer when it all falls apart.

So just for the sake of His glory, let's spend a little time reflecting on His gifts. Because even today, with the economic indicators pointing south and all the media spewing doomsday messages, His goodness and mercy flows in America. Let's not skim the top tasting only the broth when the pot is filled with rich meat.

Did you have your Starbucks today? How was your workout with your trainer? Did you have a nice walk on your two good legs? Was your bed nice and comfy-cozy while you couldn't sleep? What did you have for dinner last night? How about this beautiful weather? Aren't those mountains and fall colors amazing? Wasn't the message at church on Sunday wonderful? Don't you just love that song, Heart of Worship? How about all those people reaching out to the victims of recent hurricanes and storms in the south?

I could write a gratitude list a hundred miles long and still not cover all there is to be thankful for. Sure we're facing some hard times. And they may get harder still. But I'll wager the master of darkness loves to hear us project about a bleak future and focus on the negative rather than bask in the light that guides our way. Praise Jesus for the light of fellowship as we keep our eyes on Him. His blessings are right here, right now.

Heavenly Father, how great Thou art! How marvelous are Your ways. We thank You Jesus for the light that saves us, for the blood You shed to cover our sins and pave our way to heaven. Though the way is often difficult with many hills and curves, we know You're just ahead, making a way, clearing the path, shining Your light. We submit all our fears, concerns and questions to You now, entrusting everything to Your wisdom and care. Basking in the glow of all Your blessings, in Jesus' name, amen.