COUNT THEM
COUNT THEM
I wouldn’t know if you have been in my shoes, but there have been many times in the past when I felt I had not done enough. I had a high standard set that I forgot to appreciate the little but significant progress that I made. I often forgot that the position I was dissatisfied with was what someone’s actual prayer points and desires were, after which they wanted to bow out.
As humans, we often concentrate on things we’ve not done and forget the much we’ve done. Imagine a child who grumbles about the school item not yet bought, forgetting that his parents have met his needs over and over again without fail. Every achievement, however small it may seem, is by grace; count them and show gratitude to God for it. He deserves all honour and appreciation.
Sometimes, it is between a couple. The wife becomes so familiar with her husband that she no longer sees the reason to appreciate him for the many sacrifices he makes for the home. The husband can forget that a little word of appreciation and praise for the wife wouldn’t make her heady but would rather make her feel loved and be willing to do more. Love thrives in an atmosphere filled with genuine appreciation. Let us practice this, and our homes will be better.
A thankful spirit is a joyful spirit; a grateful heart is a healthy heart. You can’t be sincerely appreciative under a negative emotion. Cultivate a grateful heart, and you will be a happier soul. While not advocating for a complacent or party spirit, it is important to appreciate yourself and celebrate your little successes. It could be just a little gift or a special treat. Do something you will be happy about.
Pat yourself on the back, your life is fulfilling a purpose. The devil may deceive you, saying “you are not doing enough,” “not making an impact,” “not prayerful enough,” not this, not that, whereas he knows you’ve been negatively affecting his kingdom. Don’t listen to his lies; see all that the Lord has helped you to achieve by grace and believe for more in the future. However little your progress may seem, you are not at the same spot.
Finally, appreciation for favours received begets more favours. The more gratitude you show, the more mercies you’ll receive. Take time to reflect and thank God for the things you never considered significant before now. Despite the blessings yet to be received, appreciate God for those you have already enjoyed. “Count your blessings, name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the Lord has done.”
© Pause and Ponder
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