“What if you only had the things today
that you thanked God for yesterday?”
I’ve seen this quote several times lately. Hmmm, I wonder why? Maybe it keeps popping up because God is trying
to get my attention? Whether this is
mere coincidence or a divine wink from God, it has worked. This little phrase has really impacted me
lately, especially over the holiday season.
So, what if? What if I only had
the things I thanked God for yesterday? Well, sadly, I’d be sitting in my good
parking spot at Wally World drinking a Coke Zero, that’s what! But, that would be it! Okay, I’m exaggerating a bit – I know that’s
highly uncharacteristic for me – but I did thank God for more than a good
parking spot and a Coke Zero yesterday.
However, I’m ashamed to say, not for much. And unfortunately it was as I
was drifting off to sleep…and I found myself just ticking off the list of all
the things I want to have tomorrow, you know…just in case? And…wait…did I even finish thanking him before
my date with Mr. Sandman?
I do, however, clearly remember grumbling a lot this week. I lost $15.00 out of my pocket, the dryer
quit working, the garage door quit working, and we still haven’t replaced the
broken microwave yet, causing me to do Neanderthal things like heating
leftovers in a pan on the stove!!
Those things I remember well. But did I remember to thank Him for lunch with
my cousin and family, the joy of caring for two amazing toddlers in my home, having
all three of my kids around my table, the birth of great-nephew? Did I? Did I, huh?
This holiday season I’ve known of 3 different families who spent the
days designated to “Comfort and Joy” in “Grief and Suffering”. They all lost loved ones over the holiday
season forever filling this season with a sense of remembrance. I’ve spent much time petitioning God on their
behalf, for sure. But, did I thank Him for our health, for our safety, for His
provision over us?
Today is New Year’s Eve, prompting me to think of my New Year
resolution? Yes, all the regulars apply –
more exercise, better diet, yadda, yadda, yadda – but this year I resolve to be
thankful! Not just for those things that
I hope to have tomorrow (you know, just in case that actually is how the Big
Man works), but for the big and little things that I take for granted every
day. Actions of others, kind words
spoken, groceries in my pantry, and the list goes on and on.
Several years ago I kept a gratitude journal. Why I stopped this I don’t know, but in 2017
I resolve to keep the gratitude journal again – physically writing down each day
what I am grateful for. In 2017 I will
be intentional in my gratitude to the Big Guy – who gives so abundantly whether
we are thankful or not
Whether
we deserve it or not
Whether
we need it or not
In 2017 I shall be thankful!
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