Early Morning Ponderings

I woke up this morning with an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Especially gratitude for my family. I don't think it is totally related to the fact that today is the 8th anniversary of 9/11. I think it also has a lot to do with the fact that it has been a tough week.

We have been battling colds, so sleep has been a precious commodity lately. Even if I get a good night's sleep, when I don't feel well, I crave sleep. We kept Ladybug home from Mom's Morning Out this week, since she was running a slight fever (99.8). So she and I were stuck at home for a few days. Thankfully the weather has been great and I've thrown the windows open to let the fresh air in.

It's been a tough week emotionally as well. It's difficult to take care of others when you don't feel well, so my temper was very short this week. And this continues to be a busy time for Hubby, with several 12+ hours days, which means I do most of the parenting on those days.

But as I lay in bed this morning before anyone else was stirring, I was so overcome with thankfulness that my family is together, with no major health concerns, with a roof over our heads and food on our table. There, as all three of us snuggled in our queen size bed together, I thanked God for my blessings.

How often do you count your blessings? Reminds me of that old hymn, Count Your Blessings written by Johnson Oatman Jr.

1. When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed,
   When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
   Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
   And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
   • Refrain:
     Count your blessings, name them one by one,
     Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
     Count your blessings, name them one by one,
     Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.
     
2. Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
   Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
   Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
   And you will keep singing as the days go by.
3. When you look at others with their lands and gold,
   Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
   Count your many blessings—wealth can never buy
   Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.
4. So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
   Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
   Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
   Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.

What are your blessings? I encourage you today to overlook your trials and be thankful.

Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18