Peace & Thanksgiving

These past few months have been difficult because of Mom's illness, and at times I have been downright un-peaceful because of the seriousness of the illness. Some verses that I have been memorizing and applying to my life prior to and now during Mom's illness and recovery are: Psalm 46:1-2


"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah"


This is just the beginning of a powerful Psalm, about God being near to His people in their times of trouble; which we have all faced times of distress due to the fact that we are living in a fallen, sin-cursed world that is reeling from the effects of Adam's Fall. It is amazing how fast we forget that God is our refuge and our strength, how often we let worry or doubt creep in and take hold of our hearts for whatever reason. That is when we need the reminder that the Apostle Paul gives in the book of Philippians.


"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your request be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."


The connection between worry and unthankfulness, and thankfulness and peace are an amazing theme throughout the bible. When we are ungrateful, we will be un-peaceful, and worrisome. We must remember that God is the giver of everything in our lives, and daily prayer and thanksgiving is important to our spiritual health and well being. As a sinful creature, I struggle with ingratitude, and grumbling can become the "way of life" if I'm not careful; what's the remedy you might ask?

Well... very simply giving thanks to our Creator and the daily provider of life,our "daily bread", and the many "earthly" possessions we enjoy! Being thankful! So take a few minutes and just count your blessings. It doesn't need to just be done on Thanksgiving Day. It needs to take place every day! Make today a day of thanksgiving in your life!

-Abby