By: Jim Umlauf
I know a man going through an exceedingly hard time right now. The challenges are physical, spiritual, and emotional. Last night I heard him pray. “Thank you, Lord…” Over and over it was “Thank you,” and not much of anything else.
We tend to brush away Christian notions, especially if they’re pasted to cloying melodies. But counting your blessings, and literally naming them one by one, is not cliché at all. In fact, we’re commanded to do so in God’s word.
“…do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)
That’s not a helpful hint for better Christian living. God wants us to talk to him about everything and anything. And as we do that, we’re to drench it all in a thankful remembering for what he’s already done and promises to continue to do.
There’s a strange result too.
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7)
Why does that bring peace? Because it drives us right back to the person of God. Friend, if God didn’t give up on you in your sin, and spilled his own Son’s blood for your sake, doesn’t it stand to reason that he won’t give up on you now?
Spend some time thanking him in specifics. You may be surprised by peace.
