https://odb.org/2024/04/07/five-good-things
It is good to be thankful for who we are today and for the things that we have, especially to Creator God, our Heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, and Saviour. As today’s ODB article teaches, there are positive benefits to thankfulness and gratefulness. For example, research indicates that people who are intentionally grateful have better sleep, fewer illnesses, and more happiness. It’s not that we will face fewer challenges in life. It’s likely we will be in a good mood much more!
If I were to list 5 things, my first will be my salvation. It gives me the everlasting hope and assurance that I will not be condemned to hell for eternity or just disolve into nothingness. I have the final destination in the new heaven and new earth where there will not be pain and suffering anymore, and where God will live among His people.
My second will be my calling and service in God that my life is not just about facing life’s challenges to put food on the table. I have a greater purpose in Christ to serve Him in His church with the little I have to repay Him for His sacrifice on the cross for me. I am thankful that I may live a redeemed and victorious life here on earth because of Christ.
My third will be my wife, whom I have known since I was 21. She has stood by me through thick and thin, despite my weaknesses and imperfections and in spite of my idiosyncrasies and behavioural traits. I came from humble beginnings, and through her support all these years, we have built a family together to raise our standard of living while always keeping our feet grounded and at the same time, always serving God together as a couple. She plays for me when I lead in worship while she’s my number one advisor when I preach.
My fourth will be my two boys, the apple of our eyes. We have seen them grow since they were babies and gave them all we could as they grow from infancy to adulthood. Although they were latchkey children with both parents working, we have been to all of their major events at school, their concerts, and sports days. Watched them performed since their kindy days, and we have been with them at every stage of their lives. As much as they will grow old and raise families of their own, they will always remain our babies until our dying day.
My fifth will be my career and the jobs that I have had since I graduated from university. We didn’t have any earthly inheritance (but we know we will have our inheritance in the saints). Thus, we started from scratch from our first paycheck. We have had to save up for everything we wanted. I am thankful that although there were ups and downs, a constant and regular income, if saved and used prudently, will eventually become something substantial after many years.
What about you? What are the 5 things that you are thankful to God for? It’s good to write them down and ponder and thank the LORD for His grace and mercy over the years. Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!
Ronnie's Thoughts 