And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.~Philippians 4:19
Thanksgiving and Christmas is upon us. Two holidays that are supposed to focus on gratitude. A day where we can give thanks for all the provisions that God grants us on a daily basis. A time to be thankful for the time to fellowship with family and friends (new and old). A time to celebrate the ultimate gift of life; our Savior Jesus Christ. God gave His Son to us to save us. So this time of year, these days should usher in peace. But yet I do often find myself struggling with anxiety and stress.
Why? I worry about not having the finances to buy enough food. I worry about my house not being clean enough or good enough. I worry about not having the means to buy gifts for those dear to me. Or not having the means to give to those who are in need. I am stressed because my focus is earthly and not eternal. Because my focus is not on Jesus. My focus is on external pressures instead of simply having a heart of gratitude.
My love for others and theirs for me is not based on material things. I can trust that God will supply what I need. What I need and what I want are two different things, but I can trust that He will give me wisdom to discern what my true needs are. He will remind me to not measure myself by temporary things, but to keep my eyes on eternal perspective. My little is more than enough if I have Jesus.
Father, You know my struggles. My feeling like I am short on something, but I know your grace is sufficient for me. So keep my eyes on the truth and my thoughts on what is good and pure. I praise You in all circumstances. Let me give a gift of love and thankfulness to You. This season is not commercial so may I not diminish your gift to me wallowing in self-pity. Forgive me. In Jesus name. Amen
Amen, Jennifer. True thankfulness.
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