My house is getting old and needs updating
But it’s the only house I’ve got
And it’s a home full of love and memories
I’m driving around in a car with a big dent
But it’s the only car I’ve got
And it gets me where I need to go
Going back to work on Monday is hard
But it’s the only job I’ve got
And I know many do not have a job at all
My family can drive me crazy
But they are the only family I’ve got
I can’t imagine what I’d do without them
Sometimes I don’t like what God allows in my life
But He’s the one and only God
And I know He knows best
This is just a silly poem that I thought of last night as I was laying in my bed complaining in my heart about some minor irritation. I was suddenly hit with the thought: what if that person was no longer in your life? That thought immediately changed my feelings from irritation to overwhelming gratitude. I thought of how blessed I am, not only in that relationship, but in so many ways.
But when we focus on the negative, we have a hard time finding those blessings. So today, let’s flip flop it. When a negative thought wants to surface about your situation or a family member or your house or your car or a friend, take a moment and think about what your life would be like without them. Sometimes–for the little stuff–that is enough to put your world back in perspective.
But if it’s not and there is a genuine problem to be solved, bring a heart of gratitude for the blessings you do have and for what the Lord is teaching you. This will serve as an encouragement and a help as you work through the problem.
I know I’ve written on this topic many times before. But, as my thoughts showed me last night, I still have a long way to go. And, just in case I am not alone, I didn’t figure it would hurt to write a reminder for myself and anyone else who needs it!
Psalm 79:13 So we, Your people and sheep of Your pasture, Will give You thanks forever; We will show forth Your praise to all generations.