Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul and forget not all His benefits: who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. (Psalm 103:1-5 NKJV)
Listening to conversations happening around me, lately I have been hearing people spend a great deal of their time complaining about first world problems. They complain about the weather, when they have a roof over their head to keep them dry and warm. They complain about their health, but they have access to medical treatments and doctors – unlike many people in other countries. They complain about feeling alone, but they are only interested in the phone they hold in their hands. I have found myself often complain about traffic, but fail to recognize the vehicle that I have is a convenience and many others do not have access to the same.
As a nation, we have been so blessed, but we choose to complain instead of rejoice. We have become like spoiled children, undisciplined and ungrateful. Today, I need this reminder of how blessed I am. I will recall, with wonder, the goodness of God in my life. He has provided me with so many blessings: family, friends, a home, a job, and my health. Why do I have any right to complain about the goodness that God has poured into my life?
Maybe you see your blessings too, but the negativity that surrounds you from within the world, has twisted your thoughts and speech. Now is a great time to get on top of it. We do have control of our negative thoughts and emotions. We are told in Romans 12:2, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” When we spend time in God’s word and with Him in prayer it becomes harder to see anything but His goodness and His love. He is the perfect embodiment of love.
Next week, let’s start our mornings reflecting on how good and loving God has been to us. Before our feet even hit the floor for the day, spend time thanking Him for your blessings. Then our armor is in place (Ephesians 6:10-19), and we will be able to withstand the negativity of those around us. We will be able to throw off the shackles of their disappointments and tap into the joy of the Lord – maintaining our strength and our purpose to bring light into the dark places of this earth. Amen!
