Generosity and Gratefulness

As I walked early this morning, I was going over things that I am needing to do. Going over my mental list I began to see I may have not been as wise managing my expenses. After asking God for His forgiveness, I began to be reminded of all the ways He has provided and blessed me. He has been so faithful in providing more than I needed. Not just financially but for every single aspect of my wellbeing.

Now instead of going over my “pending” list, I began to make a mental list of the different ways God has provided and blessed me. As I thought of each blessing God has bestowed upon me, through the generosity of both loved ones and strangers, I am in awe of His goodness and faithfulness. How glorious to see Him change our hearts from being selfish to being generous.

I have much to be grateful, and there are so many people that come to mind that have, over the years, been a huge blessing in my life. I could take a long time to name them all and all the ways they have shown their love, care, and generosity. They inspire me to also be more generous with all that God gives me, whether it is with time, money, talents, or affection.

Even though Thanksgiving is an American holiday, it is one that I have grown very fond of. (And not just because of the fall decorations or the pumpkin spice coffee!) My parents were quick to celebrate it as we became acquainted with it. My mom even brought it over to her extended family and now every year we have a family reunion centered on giving thanks. Unfortunately, this will the first year we have to forgo after my mom began the tradition about 15 years ago. In any case, I bring it up, because it is a perfect opportunity for us to think back and see God’s faithfulness.

There is so much to be grateful for. Yes, it’s been a chaotic, frustrating, and may even go down as the worst year ever! for some, but even in the midst of it all there will be traces of God’s goodness and faithfulness. So take a moment and meditate on all the things/people you have not been without, those you knew you didn’t deserve yet you enjoyed them, and stand in awe of God’s love and mercy along with me.

²² The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
    his mercies never come to an end;
²³ they are new every morning;
    great is your faithfulness.
²⁴ “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,
    “therefore I will hope in him.”

Lamentations 3:22-24

I do want to take this opportunity to thank all you who have made it a priority to bless organizations like Rancho 3M. It is because of people like you that make it possible for people like me to be able to do what we love and were called to do. Thank you and may God continue to bless you as you bless others.