In March of this year I began a new journal, A Celebration of Small Things, in an effort to become more aware of God’s daily gifts. But after discovering the quotes below it became clear: my gratitude list is missing whole categories of blessings.
See what you think of these statements. (Note that with each quote I’ve included my own prayer-response and a corresponding scripture.)
QUOTE #1
Is the glass half empty or half full?
Just be thankful you have a glass!
—Jack Wellman
You’ve given me a beautiful glass, Father—a life overflowing with loving family and friends, days filled with purpose and pleasure, surprise blessings that satisfy my heart with joy. The words “thank you” seem trivial for such gracious gifts.
“You make me glad by your deeds, O Lord; I sing for joy at the works of your hands.”
Psalm 92:4 NIV
QUOTE #2
Give thanks for ‘all things’ for, as it has been well said,
‘Our disappointments are but his appointments.’
—A.W. Pink
I thank you, Father, for the doors of opportunity you’ve closed, the challenging moves to new communities you’ve ordained, and the wishes of my heart you’ve withheld. Each disappointment I know was for my benefit and your glory. Thank you for hindsight to understand in part, and the promise that one day I’ll understand in totality.
QUOTE #3
“I thank Thee first because I was never robbed before;
second, because although they took my purse they did not take my life;
third, although they took my all, it was not much;
and fourth, because it was I who was robbed and not I who robbed.
—Matthew Henry,
on the night he was robbed
Thank you, Father, for Henry’s example of grateful positivity. No doubt he lifted his own spirit with such a prayer, and I can imagine your smile of approval as well. When trouble assaults my life, may I be as grateful and positive as Matthew Henry.
“Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV
QUOTE #4
There’s one thing for which you can be thankful—
only you and God have all the facts about yourself.
—Dub Nance
Oh, Lord, thank you for being a God who delights to show mercy, lavishes compassionate forgiveness, and understands well my frailty. Thank you also for molding me day by day into the image of Christ—in spite of my shortcomings (Micah 7:18b; Psalm 103:12-14, and 2 Corinthians 3:18).
QUOTE #5
The best things are nearest:
breath in your nostrils, light in your eyes,
flowers at your feet, duties at your hand,
the path of God just before you.
—Robert Louis Stevenson
Oh, yes, Father. Thank you for numerous “best things” close at hand such as: a spontaneous hug, the chortling giggles of a grandbaby, a carnival of birds frolicking in the backyard trees (at least six species at once), and savory chicken/sausage soup—made by Steve—for a bleak and blustery day.
“Rejoice in all the good which the Lord your God has given to you and your house.”
Deuteronomy 26:11 (emphasis added)
Indeed, ALL the good. Thank you, Father, for bringing to mind these new blessings to count.
And now, precious readers, which quote especially caught your attention? I’d love to hear about it. Please share your choice and thoughts below!
(Art & photo credits: Nancy Ruegg; http://www.heartlight.org; www.canva.com (2); http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pexels.com.)
From the Inside Out 