Thankful by Lisa Burkhardt Worley
For today’s devotion, it made sense to focus on the subject of “thankfulness” so as I reflect on what I am thankful for in my life, I hope the Lord brings something to mind in your own life.
I am thankful for:
God’s creation– Every morning I marvel at the sunrise and never tire of admiring the variety of flowers he provides for our viewing pleasure. I am in awe of creation! How could we ever doubt there is a creator? Psalm 19:1
Family- I’m a girl who grew up in a dysfunctional environment. When I look at how God provided a husband and two healthy boys to surround me, I know God has restored “what the locusts have eaten.” Joel 2:25
My dog Jewel-When we might not receive unconditional love in all instances, God has provided this bundle of warmth who loves me no matter what! She’s is excited to see me when I get up in the morning and when I return home each day. It’s as if I’d been away for years, not hours. She is my shadow in the home. Jewel is a gift. Genesis 1:21
My relationship with Christ– I did not grow up attending church. It is by the grace of God that a friend led me to Christ in high school. When I strayed from his path, he brought me back, and it has been one of the most exciting journeys I could ever wish for! Proverbs 16:9
My ministry– I set out to be a sportscaster and ended up in full-time ministry. I would have never pictured myself in this scenario years ago, but in his loving way, God brought me along slowly and now has me immersed in his service. I used to report on sports, now I report on what God is teaching me. Psalm 84:2
A God Who Cares- Without a father in my life, God has always been my Abba Father. He has provided direction and holy discipline in my life. Scripture tells us he cares so much that he knows how many hairs are on our head. I always reflect on the verse, “What is man that you are mindful of him?” Psalm 8:4
God’s Provision- I never take this for granted. I am thankful for a roof over my head, clothes to wear and food on the table. I realize there are people in the world who do not know these privileges. I don’t understand why I was blessed in this way, but I am grateful. Matthew 6:25,26
God’s Protection- I’ve been hit by a car, escaped a helicopter crash unscathed, survived a serious illness, and avoided countless near traffic accidents. God has been my protector. As I pray daily for protection, He continues to watch over my family. Psalm 32:7
The Gift of Love- The closer I move toward God, the more I am able to love others. Is that what it means in 1 John 4:8 when it says “God is love”? God gives us the ability to love all and to deeply care for the well being of others. I used to be focused more on myself but as I grow in faith, I realize it is not about me. I am second. John 13:34,35
My Future- Recently, God gave me a revelation about the future. While it makes me apprehensive, his message to me is also saying to not worry about the future and to just focus on today. He will take care of the details. I am thankful that the Lord worries about tomorrow so I don’t have to. Jeremiah 29:11
What are you thankful for?