As humans, we tend to dwell on the hardships, struggles and setbacks we face rather than the everyday blessings. This is why we must pause to reflect on the goodness and blessings of God. Focusing on everyday blessings doesn’t negate our struggles, but it can help us put things into perspective and give us the courage to move forward. When we do this, we discover that our lives consist of more positive moments than negative, more blessings than trials.
Let us begin by taking time to reflect on the blessings of summer. Days are longer, warmer and brighter. We can swim at the beach, take long walks without fighting the cold and much more. It’s a great time to enjoy being outdoors with those we love dearly. Myself, I enjoy playing tennis outside rather than inside. For me, this is a blessing.
We must also stop to reflect on those who are important to us, they are each a blessing in our lives—family members, friends, neighbors, co-workers, church family and even those who provide a service to us such as doctors, nurses, police and so forth. Life without them wouldn’t be the same. Humans were created to be social, not to go through life alone.
Most of all, we must remember to be thankful for God’s presence in our lives. No matter what problem we face, we are never alone. He is with us every second of every day.
I encourage you to write a list of everyday blessings in your life. Put it in a place where you can see it each day, to serve as a reminder of all the good in your life. And keep adding to it. When stress, anxiety or sorrow strikes, we have a tendency to focus only on what is causing these emotions rather than the good that is still in our lives.
But if we intentionally pause each day to reflect on our blessings—especially the goodness, mercy, grace and kindness of God—our mood, attitude and perspective will change for the better. Every day with God is a good day.
Lord, thank you for the many blessings in our lives, especially Your presence. Help us to be mindful of them.
