- My morning view.
Praise God from whom ALL blessings flow!
God’s word is so refreshing. Refreshing in times of joy, sadness, disaster, rebuilding, and _________ (you fill in the blank).
This morning I woke to these precious words:
“Always be filled with joy in the Lord. I will say it again. Be filled with joy. Let everyone see that you are gentle and kind. The Lord is coming soon. Don’t worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks for what you have. And because you belong to Jesus Christ, God’s peace will stand guard over all your thoughts and feelings. His peace can do this far better than our human minds. Brothers and sisters, continue to think about what is good and worthy of praise. Think about what is true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected.” Philippians 4:4-8
See! I told you God’s word is refreshing and precious!
Here I sit on my front porch…a nice breeze, birds and butterflies flying, cows grazing (I don’t think they ever stop though), the American flag wafting in the wind, sounds of nature, generators (ours and the neighbors), and Christian music in the background…and counting my blessings. Thank You, Lord, for all!
When I scroll through social media, or catch a glimpse of the news, I see many of folks grateful for being alive through the storm (PTL!), and others are complaining about having no electricity. Yea, that stinks. I’m right there with you with having no electricity. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked into a room, flipped the switch, and shook my head thinking, “Oh, yea”. But, hang on…open your eyes…look around…we have what we need.
I know of family and friends who still are not able to return to their Irma ridden homes. Their areas are being assessed, and all they can see is a satellite view of their property. Some are home, and the waters are continuing to rise. (Prayers are appreciated!) I think about the taxi driver we had in the BVI (Tortola, specifically) back in February of this year. He was so proud of his island. His family has been there for generations. Tortola was/is their home and livelihood. In our conversation, I asked him about hurricanes through the BVI. The gentleman stated with pride how they have weathered the storms successfully with slight or no damage to their homes. I don’t believe I can say that now. After seeing photos from the islands, that we love to travel to, the devastation is horrific! Our prayers are with them, and so many others.
So, the next time you want to grumble about having no electricity (for those of us who are physically capable of going without), count your blessings. The electric companies are working around the clock to return service to all. Thank you, TECO, Duke Energy, Georgia Power, and all electric companies bringing light and luxury back to our homes and businesses.
Now, this doesn’t only apply to the millions of folks who are dealing with hurricanes and other natural disasters…this applies to any situation in your life when you feel downtrodden, having a pity-party for yourself, or are truly in the midst of some life changing turmoil.
Be joyful in all circumstances. God provides us with all we NEED.
Remember…(emphasis is mine)
“Always be filled with joy in the Lord. I will say it again. Be filled with joy. Let everyone see that you are gentle and kind.”
“Don’t worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks for what you have”
“His peace can do this far better than our human minds.”
“think about what is good and worthy of praise. Think about what is true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected.”
Have a beautiful day. Count those blessings, name them one by one.
Many thanks and prayers continue for our government officials, all Armed Forces, fire and rescue and police officers, electricians, building contractors, medical staff, and the list continues.
Much love and prayers to all, Stephanie
#survivingIrma #Godisgoodallthetime #soakinguptheson #bejoyful #countyourblessings
