His Blessings Are All Around Us
God created the heavens and the earth, the moon and the stars. He created all of the good, wholesome, enjoyable, and fun things we have on this earth as a blessing for us to enjoy. The key is not holding on to these earthly things too tightly. We should grasp and enjoy our blessings whether big or small. If we know Jesus Christ as our Savior, our best lives await us in heaven where we will spend eternity in joy, enjoying a life which is far better than the “best” we could ever experience here on earth. The wonderful thing about God is, He wants us to enjoy life now, and later. The truth is, God wants you to enjoy your life every day. Did you know that? If you didn't, or aren't sure whether God approves of people enjoying their lives, take a look at John 10:10. It says, “The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance.” This is an absolutely amazing scripture because it clearly tells us that God doesn't just want us to be alive, but He wants us to enjoy being alive. He wants us to live with joy – abundant, overflowing joy! As a Christian, you can enjoy life because your conscience is clear from sin. You can enjoy life because you are secure and confident within God’s love. You can have fun and make memories with the ones you love. Take time to watch the sunset. Listen to the birds sing in the morning. Watch the way the wind blows through the leaves of the trees. God has placed even these things here on earth for our enjoyment. Blessings don't always come as materialistic gifts, but rather as the simple pleasures in life. The world makes us believe that "God wants to increase you financially" and if we aren't "rich" we aren't living the "good life". The truth is, in Christ, everyday we are living the "good life". It is us to recognize it, accept it, and live it. God loves us and he wants us to live the abundant life of everlasting joy that He has already given to us.
1 Timothy 6:19
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.
A Prayer for Today
Father God, Thank You for this earth, for the beautiful sky and the radiant sun, for the ocean and streams, for the towering hills and the whispering wind, for the trees and green grass. Thank You for our senses by which we hear the songs of birds, and see the splendor of the fields. Thank You that we can taste autumn's fruit, rejoice in the feel of snow, and smell the breath of spring flowers. Thank You for all of the wonderful people I get to share my life with. Grant me a heart opened wide to all of Your splendor and glory, and help me from being distracted by the things of this world. Teach me how to love what you love, Lord.
Amen