Blessed!

As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.  James 5:11

In this season of trials and struggles, I am reminded of the call to persevere.  While I have been challenged by Job's testimony, the Lord has used the testimony of my brother Nate even more these past few weeks.  Nate is confined to a wheelchair.  He can not use his legs and only has partial use of one of his arms.  The tasks we find easy are not so simple for Nate.  These setbacks can not, and I doubt ever will, stop that guy.  Nate drives his wheelchair to almost every church event no matter the weather.  Nate works with the youth group.  Nate finished college and is now going back to school to be a pastor.  Nate is truly blessed and has blessed my life.  Every time I want to feel sorry for myself because of my job, my torn achilles, or occasional boredom I am reminded of Nate and his outlook and character.  Nate has been the Job in my life and has forever changed my outlook on life and the struggles it brings.  Nate is blessed and has been a blessing to myself and so many.  I am excited for His eternal blessings and the day when Nate's body will be made new.  I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that is the day Nate lives for.

The truths of God's character overcome all my wallowing in self pity.  It is true that His mercies are new every morning.  He is faithful and will not tempt us beyond what we can bear.  He continues to prove His faithfulness even when we are unfaithful.  His blessings and riches are greater than we can fathom.  His strength is perfect when mine has failed.  We have the BLESSED assurance of salvation through Christ Jesus.  How then can I complain?  How then can I give up?  How then can I turn to any other source of life, joy, and hope?  Are my struggles not temporary while He, His blessings, and His Kingdom are forever?  This too shall pass and one day I will be made perfect; the work He began will be completed and I will spend eternity before His throne.

As the weeks have progressed I have seen the Lord bring change.  Some of those changes I did not like at the time and some I stil struggle with.  I have seen His hand through it all.  I strive to daily choose to count my blessings and to take my every need and care to the Lord.  I find my confidence in His perfect plan growing daily.  Funny how my joy and hope have increased as I persevere and remember my blessings.  Is this not evident to others?  Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe.  (Philippians 2:14-15)  What a simple, yet hard way to shine and live Matthew 5:16.

As I daily press on and count my blessings I am reminded of the old hymn:

When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Refrain:

Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
*Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.
[*And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.]

Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.

When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings—wealth can never buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.

So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.

May we never lose sight of the riches of His promises in our lives.  He is faithful and we are truly blessed to the glory of God the Father.  Thank you Lord for lavishing countless blessings on my life.  May I never be lacking in thankfulness, hope, perseverance, or love for You who gave it all.

WHAT A BLESSED ASSURANCE AND A BLESSED FUTURE!