2020 has been an unprecedented year in many ways.
When we started this year, we had no idea that a global pandemic was brewing and that our way of life would drastically change. I could not have guessed that “You’re on mute” will become a popular 2020 phrase as we navigate the new normal of virtual gatherings. And who knew that Zoom parties could become so popular!
Yet through it all, the hand of God has been unmistakable. You and I have a lot to be thankful for. We are still here because God kept us!
In the United States, we celebrated Thanksgiving yesterday and as my family sat around the table recounting the things we are thankful for, my heart was overwhelmed with gratitude. So much has happened this year and I could not stop saying Thank You Jesus!
I am most thankful for my life, for my family, for two new babies, for protection, for healing, for provision, for a sound mind and for so many things God delivered me from that I don’t even know. The more I reflected on the details of this year, the more I saw the hand of God weaving my story. The more I expressed my gratitude, the more I remembered things to be thankful for.
Take the time to reflect and count your blessings. The closer you look, the more you will find to be grateful for.
“What you focus on expands.” ― T. Harv Eker
Today, more than ever before, we need to consciously focus on the blessings of God and refuse to be overwhelmed by the pressure of daily living. [Tweet “When we count our blessings and focus on gratitude, our heart thrives.”]
Growing up in the Baptist church, I loved to sing hymns and one of my favorites is the hymn Count your blessings. The lyrics give me hope and I hope the words encourage you to pause and count your blessings.
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
Refrain:
Count your blessings, name them one by one;
Count your blessings, see what God hath done;
Count your blessings, name them one by one;
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will be singing as the days go by.
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings, money cannot buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.
So, amid the conflict, whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.
Johnson Oatman, Jr. 1987.
Baptist Hymnal, 1991
