Thankfulness

I'm going through a Bible study right now called "Brave". It's by Angela Thomas. One of the sessions last week suggested that instead of complaining about what I *have* to do, be thankful that I *get* to do it. An example is laundry. Instead of complaining that it's never ending, I should be thankful that I have clothes to wear and the modern conveniences of a washing machine and a dryer to get them clean.

Philippians 4:4-7 - "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, bu prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Colossians 3:17 - "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 4:2 - "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful."

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - "Rejoice always pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

Thankfulness is a theme through these scriptures. Prayer is also a theme. Breathe a prayer of thankfulness for what you have, for what God has done.

Things I am thankful for (in no particular order):

1. Prayer
2. Friends
3. My husband
4. My children
5. Bible study
6. Church family
7. Home
8. Parents
9. Vacations
10. The beach
11. Washing machine
12. Dryer
13. Clean water
14. Clothing
15. Going to China
16. Going to Uganda
17. Working cars
18. Music
19. Rain
20. Sunshine
21. Warm weather
22. Snow
23. Books
24. LASIK
25. Health
26. Good food
27. Cats
28. Internet
29. Work experience
30. Being able to stay home (and not have to work)
31. Warm blankets
32. Ceiling fans
33. Central heating and air
34. The hammock
35. Grocery stores
36. Photos
37. Solar power
38. Shoes
39. Healthcare
40. Coffee
41. Kayaking
42. Walking
43. Internet shopping
44. Indoor plumbing
45. Winter Jam - time spent with my oldest
46. Shopping - time spent with my youngest
47. Support for mission trips
48. Being asked to travel with a friend when she adopts - whether I get to go or not
49. The knowledge that God is good no matter my circumstances
50. Naps

What I'm reading:

Daring to Hope by Katie Davis Majors

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J. K. Rowling

The Complete Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Passport through Darkness by Kimberly Smith