It may or may not be a human tendency to be negative; I can only speak to my own inclinations. As I considered what to write about this week, I perceived my focus turning toward concerns and disconnectedness. It can be profitable to consider my problems and complaints in the Light of Truth; but if I fail to balance it with consistent appreciation for God’s work in my life, then my attitude towards the world becomes wrongfully despondent. That God is good is a thought that should never be far from my mind, for it is a powerfully encouraging truth. Even amid his melancholic reflections, Jeremiah still took time to thank God for His blessings; But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new ever morning; great is Your faithfulness. “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, therefore I will hope in Him. (Lamentations 3:21-24)
Surely the greatest blessing I can lay claim to is God’s love for me, as it is indeed the foundation of all other blessings. Sinfallen as I am, constantly and consistently turned toward evil in my heart, I am preserved from depravity, spared just punishment, and continually redeemed to glory day by day. My betterment is entirely due to the sanctification of the Holy Spirit, and I experience His grace and mercy afresh continually. Even the trials of my life serve to remind me of the hope I have in Christ, increasing my faith and reaffirming my duty to share His love.
I am grateful for the many creative ways we are privileged to glorify God with. Every skill and vocation reflects God’s design for mankind and the world, and each individual is uniquely privileged in what they may learn to appreciate therein. I have found much to praise God for in music and story theory; others I know take joy in comprehending social engineering, or in agriculture, or in the study of wildlife. God’s wisdom and imagination is displayed all around us, for us to enjoy and be inspired to worship.
God’s providence also calls us to thankfulness. I learn ever more to trust in His omnipotence, capable of providing what I truly need, and His omniscience, knowing my needs when I do not. Spoiled as I am, having yet to experience lack of what we call “necessities,” I often catch myself discontent with the abundance I’m blessed with, much to my shame. Far better for me to be thankful for the least of things, favoring humility over pride, that I may lessen the need for my humbling. To do so both blesses me with peace and is in keeping with God’s desire for me.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 – Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Be positive! TTT