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Imperative Count Your Blessings Jar

My Priceless Count Your Blessings Jar

“How we praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every blessing in heaven because we belong to Christ.” Ephesians 1:3 TLB

Imperative? Indeed! Do you not have one? Think you don’t need another ‘thing’ to do or mess with? Are you sure?

Ever find yourself in the middle of a muddle? Stressed beyond belief? Wonder where God is while your world is crumbling? You are not alone, I’ve been there…often of late!

A few weeks ago, I felt overwhelmed and so lonely. Knowing what to do, I brewed my favorite tea, found a cozy chair by the fireplace, and dumped my entire 2022 blessing jar in my lap. About halfway through reading the tiny notes I had penned, I was crying, laughing, repenting, rejoicing!

“A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.” Proverbs 28:20 KJV

Trust me on this one. Right now, find a glass, can, basket, old kitchen bowl…whatever! Find a notepad or chop up some paper and gather some pens; you are ready! Go ahead…put in ONE blessing right now. Like today’s survival, eyesight, wisdom to read, Jesus…you get it!

For my jar, I added Momma’s favorite roses, happy ribbons, and a colorful note to an old vase. I keep it in plain sight because God’s blessings are my greatest possessions!

Click here for more ideas.

I promise you, God wants to just dump His blessings on you every day; you are His child; His love is powerful, consistent, and always there for you.

Here are some benefits of a blessings jar.

#1 Visual reminder of God’s goodness. Our adversary does not want us to count blessings and he WILL try to discourage your progress.

#2 Teaches our families to honor God with our thankfulness.

#3 Literally pulls us out of the pit by reminding us of our Father’s blessings.

#4 Re-inforces our witness to others as we keep His blessings in our hearts and minds.

#5 So much more… why don’t you list a few here?

If you struggle with what to write, consider the thoughts in this poem by the world-renowned Author Unknown.

Count your blessings instead of your crosses; Count your gains instead of your losses. Count your joys instead of your woes; Count your friends instead of your foes. Count your smiles instead of your tears; Count your courage instead of your fears. Count your full years instead of your lean; Count your kind deeds instead of your mean. Count your health instead of your wealth; Count on God instead of yourself.

YOU are a blessing to me,

Hugs,

5 Ways to Encourage Bereaved in 2023

God’s Greatest Gift is Jesus! God’s Greatest Creation is Family!

“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” Revelation 21:4

This 2nd year without my sweet Russell is harder than the last. The miss looms heavy; yet, I am comforted by God’s Word.

Join me in encouraging others on this journey. We genuinely have Good News to share. Here are tips and cautions as we enter the year God has planned for us.

#1. Think about what adjustments the individual or family is having to make. Can you help with family needs? Even the smallest help has a big impact; everyone needs to know someone cares!

Today, in the midst of a snowstorm and single-digit temps, a young neighbor stopped hauling his hay long enough to bring in my mail. He chatted for a few minutes, then took my trash to the dumpster on his way out.

#2 We were created as individuals; we do not all handle losses the same way. When you feel pressured to attend a family gathering or other event, it’s okay to say, “let me get back to you,” or “I really need to decline this time.” Should someone grieving respond to your invitation in that way, remember to honor their request.

#3 Be sensitive; some may want to talk…a lot. For others, remembering the loss is still too painful. Note: a good hug, smile, and prayer are always welcome!

For me: I needed people last week, big time! So I left the house and headed for our local Walmart to sit on a bench by the checkouts. For over two hours, God showered me with amazing visits, hugs, and prayers! God’s Amazing Grace!

Here are some inspiring verses to help you and others through the grief process.

#4. When possible, share a cherished memory. Are you aware of some way the cherished loved one encouraged or inspired you or others? I have learned so much about my sweet husband; how blessed we were to have him in our lives!

#5. Tell others how they can pray specifically for you and your family. By the same token, encourage specific prayer requests from your friends and family who are grieving. And make a list, remembering to faithfully pray.

“It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him.“ Lamentations 3:22-24

I am excited about the new year; I pray you are as well. God holds us in the palm of His loving hands. Our world has gone nuts, our losses are overwhelming, and our schedules unreal. Yet, Our Father never changes!

Let me hear from you,

Hugs,

There are No Words

Waiting for a Photo

Our Creator’s Handiwork

“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” I Corinthians 2:9

There are no words to describe God’s timing.

Teary-eyed, tired, and not anxious to face another night alone, I approached my house as the sun was sinking in the west. Across the road, a field of deer caught my eye. They stood waiting as I turned around in my driveway for a better view. Peace filled my heart and soul; I knew God’s abounding love and presence were with me and life would be okay.

There are no words to capture this moment with my son.

As my son Michael braved the chilly winds to replace my tattered American flag, I was overwhelmed by his respect for family and for our nation. He slowly lowered the weathered flag. With great care, he folded it cautiously as if the world were looking on, then solemnly handed it to me. Our eyes teared as we recalled a folded flag handed to me not so long ago.

There are no words to adequately share the memories.

For three days, I never left the house. I sorted ‘stuff’! Proudly I mustered the strength to tote four heavy bags to the dumpster; along with tattered suitcases and … well, stuff! The frustration of such accumulation was quickly eased as I thought of what riches my trash would be to those in need. Weary, worn, and blessed, I snuggled by the fireplace with a lap full of ‘treasures’ to explore.

There are no words…

I visited a church out of town Sunday. The pastor’s message from Matthew on doubt tugged at my very soul. Why am I so amazed as I go from church to church to find God always has a message to strengthen and enrich my heart and soul? Always!

There are no words to express the value of laughter.

I had no intention of stopping at a busy cafe as I headed back home Sunday. Yet, I parked in a crowded lot and was seated at a tiny table in the corner. Choosing not to join others when asked, I slowly savored my food as I listened to infectious chatter. The smiles, giggles, and laughter drew my thoughts to what it means to be a part of the family of God.

There are no words to express the love Jesus has for you.

When I think of what it means to know that I know that I know Jesus lives within my heart—wow! Seriously, there are no words. I pray often for each of you on my reader’s list; if you are ever unsure of Jesus’ unfailing love for you…contact me!

Much prayer, love, and hugs,