Walking with a Heart of Gratitude

Happy Thanksgiving to one and all!!!

On this wonderful day, may each of us take time to reflect on the goodness of our God and His care (protection and provision) for us. II Samuel 7:18 begins David's prayer of gratitude. Just the opening verse is so powerful, as David basically asks, "How did I deserve such wonderful care?" As I sit here on Thanksgiving Day, I ask the same question. Why has God chosen to bless me, for He has so greatly blessed me and my family in soooo many ways.

PROVIDENCE
God has been so good. In a world of turmoil and a time of transition, God is immutable. He does not change, and so I know that I can trust Him regardless of what we are facing or enduring. He may not reveal the next step, but He is still sovereign. He is worthy of our adoration and devotion that should result in our obedience.

PEOPLE (family)
God has given me such a wonderful family, from my wife to my kids, to my parents and siblings, to my in-laws. The family that I have is so incredibly wonderful in so many ways.

• God has given me such a marvelous wife. She is a blessing in every way imaginable. Thanks for all that you do in and for the family.
• I have three great kids. The two adults are fantastic young people and the tiny one is high energy. All three are GREAT!
• My parents (both Mom & Dad and the in-laws) are such blessings. They are encouraging and supportive. I couldn't ask for better parents.
• I have some wonderful siblings. Even as they go through the ups and downs of life, they are supportive in comment and prayer. 

PROVISION
(1) In the midst of this time of transition, we have jobs to help pay the bills. (2) Many have given us gifts to help offset the difference of income/expense. They have no way to know how much of a blessing that those gifts have been and how they have helped to meet needs. (3) We have food on the table and a roof over our heads.

PROTECTION
(1) The family has been pretty much healthy for the last year+. (2) With the miles traveled, we have been safe. One minor accident, but the only injury was to the car.

Do we have anything for which to be thankful -- ABSOLUTELY!