Paul reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NLT).
Some days we are challenged and stretched beyond what we can comprehend. The greatest part of those situations is that we can really see God show up and show out.
This week I am thankful for my present. Over the last year and a half, I have spread my wings into unfamiliar territory. This was an exciting, new place to go but I soon realized the new territory was filled with insecurities and opposition. My new journey of writing for others has been a blessing. I’m grateful for every person who has read my stories, commented, edited my writing (thank you hubby), mentored me, and offered me opportunities that I couldn’t imagine two years ago.
I’ve strengthened my faith by writing, constantly looking deeper into things, and researching more to make sure I’ve got it right.
There have been so many people who have pulled me in and encouraged me through this journey. I’m still new and have a lot to learn but when I look back at the small amount of time I’ve been doing it I’m amazed by my progress.
The people I’ve met have been a joy and intimidating. Sometimes it’s easy to write and other times I may as well bang my head on the table.
As for my personal life, I find joy in the moment. The joy of being a mom of a teenager, the wife of an incredible man, the shotgun rider of my teen. I’m part of a family that is loving and supportive. You can read two of my joy stories on the Grit and Grace Project from last week here. The Joy Found in Parenting a Teen and the Joy in Generations.
I am grateful that my health is stable. A year ago I had just experienced my second major surgery in two years, our dog had just passed away and I was sitting in the recliner crying because I had pneumonia again. It hurt to breathe and I was just sick and tired of being sick and tired.
Today I can say my chest tube incision and my surgical sites have healed. The scars on either collarbone and down the sides of my chest are like battle wounds that Jesus healed. I’m on a long-term treatment plan to heal my lungs. We get to share in having two puppies who just turned a year old. We are enjoying our son and seeing how he is growing and prospering in his academic and social lives as he pursues his dreams. (Hello YouTube channel).
Even on the really hard days, I can still find joy in something. Even if it’s a simple thing like, God woke me up this morning. I was able to open the pill bottle on my own! (Thankful for arthritis-friendly tops) or I folded a load of laundry.
When you are facing trials and storms, just remember that we always have something to be thankful for even when it may not be what we want. What are you thankful for in the present?
Lovely blog.
Thank you Gladys!❤️