The Power of Grace and Gratitude

On days when I struggle, when I see people as difficult and demanding, when my head swims with confusion, and I just want peace, there are some actions I must take.

I must

• remember that I am only responsible for my actions. I can’t change those around me.

• actively remember the blessings in my life, for no matter what is going on, the blessings outweigh the blues.

• practice grace –

  • Grace toward myself in allowing rest

  • Grace toward others in allowing for differences and growth

• forgive. I can’t release another from their failings and sins, but I can release the anger in my heart and allow God’s Spirit to soothe and refresh.

• trust and pray. When my mind is in turmoil, decisions are impossible.

• breathe deeply. Sometimes, in the stress of the day, I allow my breath to become shallow and choppy. I huff and puff at indignities and rant at injustices. When I stop and breathe, I can allow God to control my heart and my thoughts. In Him I find peace regardless of the state of this life.

As I think about this today, here is a short list of blessings:

• I got out of bed this morning. I am not bedridden, and no one had to help me get dressed or prepare for the day.

• I can walk.

• I have food to eat and clean water to drink.

• I have shelter.

• I have family and friends.

• I heard a child laugh today.

• I have a Savior. I am redeemed.

• God’s grace is enough for me today.

• I know my Lord will return for me.

I am not making light of the many problems that people face. I can list sorrow after sorrow that friends and family are battling today. But while hurt is real, so is joy, and in God’s joy is our strength. In God’s grace is our victory.

I don’t understand much of what we go through here in this world. I don’t understand why people are mean to each other, why they lie and cheat, why children are hurt, why children suffer. I know that Satan is actively working in hearts and lives and only God’s power can overcome his evil.

No matter what, though, I choose to yield to God. I choose to yield to God’s way despite the evil and trust Him to overcome. I choose to live in hope. I choose joy in the midst of sorrow.

Join me today. We are in the middle of great battles, but we serve a great God. Breathe deeply of His grace and joy

and spend some time counting blessings.

Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21).

Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer (Romans 12:12);