Count Your Blessings

When we sit down for a cup of coffee while our pies are baking today, let us pause for a moment and write down a list of the things we are thankful for. Putting things in writing makes them real. We can reread the list over and over and thank God each time. Our hearts will be full and our minds will be happy. 

One of my favorite songs of the season is "Count Your Blessings", by Johnson Oatman, Jr. and Edwin O. Excell in 1897. The words remind us that even in our darkest days, there is still something to be thankful for.

"When upon life's billows you are tempest-tossed, When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost, Count your many blessings--name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.  Are you ever burdened with a load of care? Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear? Count your many blessings--every doubt will fly, And you will be singing as the days go by.  When you look at others with their lands and gold, Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold; Count your many blessings--money cannot buy Your reward in heaven not your home on high.  So amid the conflict, whether great or small, Do not be discouraged--God is over all; Count your many blessings--angels will attend, Help and comfort give you to your journey's end."

Refrain: "Count your blessings--name them one by one; Count your blessings see what God has done; Count your blessings--name them one by one; Count your many blessings--see what God has done."

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ," (Ephesians 1:3 NIV).

I hope you start the day by singing and that your blessings' list keeps you smiling all day long. May God fill you with a heart of gratitude all week long.