perspective

giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ ~Ephesians 5:20

I am far too quick to lose sight of the multitude of blessings God has given me. Sadly, I am much better at being grumpy than grateful. Instead of rejoicing, I am often complaining.

But over the past two days with Psalm 131 serving as my daily prayer, God's Spirit has increased my thankfulness. As He quiets and calms my soul, I am seeing His mighty hand at work.

How?

I paid the entirety of my fall semester bill without the assistance of a loan. Thanks to the answered prayer of work over the summer, I made enough to avoid more debt. Give thanks always.

My schedule provides enough time to keep working part-time and continue saving money. On top of that, coaching water polo and swimming provide more opportunities to save money and engage with others. Give thanks always.

I attended my cousin's wedding last weekend with all of my immediate family and most of my extended family on my mother's side. We laughed, celebrated, and danced to our heart's content. Give thanks always.

I get to co-lead a group of seventh and eighth grade boys through the Gospel of John on a weekly basis. They are rowdy, but they help me grow as much as I help them. Give thanks always.

I receive and reciprocate both prayer and encouragement as I run with a pastor-friend three times a week. Give thanks always.

God continues to provide many opportunities to gain valuable ministry experience through the blessing of the local church as well as the blessings of being with His people. Give thanks always.

On a daily basis I get to attend classes, read, and study more about the Father, Son, and Spirit who saved me and calls me to live for His glory. Give thanks always.

I received a sleeping upgrade with the new bed purchased by my landlords (aka dad and mom) which is extremely comfortable and beneficial to my back. Give thanks always.

I was able to spend last Saturday evening sitting around a fire with some friends enjoying a beautiful late summer evening where the sky was void of any clouds and splattered with millions of stars. Give thanks always.

...and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ