Father God…where do I start?

How do I begin to truly tell you all the things I’m thankful for?

Sure, there’s the seemingly obvious – I’m thankful that Jesus died for my sins; I’m thankful for my family; I’m thankful for my job and things like that.

But it goes so much deeper than that…

Thank you – for the countless times I’ve been stuck (in my head; in life; in my relationships) and you’ve saved me; for the many times I couldn’t see beyond myself and you opened my eyes; for all the moments I doubted You but You still showed up to prove Yourself faithful…again.

Thank you – for being my Strong Defense and High Tower when I was wrestling with my pride; battling bitterness; or grappling with cynicism, anxiety, or unforgiveness.

Thank you – for loving me when I’ve been totally unlovable; speaking life to me when I’ve been withering inside; and for consistently comforting me when I’ve been discouraged or heartbroken.

Thank you – that Jesus really did take my punishment on the Cross so that I could have an authentic, close, and vibrant relationship with You.

Thank you – that I get to wake up every day with You (Psalm 139:18); live every minute in You (Acts 17:28); and have new opportunities to reflect You in all that I do and say (Colossians 3:17).

Thank you – for an incredible family and a community of friends who love me so well and care for me so deeply. I’m truly grateful I don’t have to walk through life alone.

Thank you – for the essentials. Shelter, food, and clothing. I don’t take these for granted.

Thank you – for a job that I love; all the incredibly gifted people I get to do ministry life with; and the grace to remember that we are all broken vessels doing our very best to glorify You.

Thank you – for Your Word that is truly a lamp to my feet (Psalm 119:105); the Holy Spirit Who continuously reminds me of what You’ve said (John 14:26); and for Your abiding Presence that never leaves me or forsakes me (Deuteronomy 31:8).

“Let the whole earth shout triumphantly to God…He made us, and we are His – His people, the sheep of His pasture.

Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and bless His name.” (Psalm 100:1, 3-4 CSB)

Until next time, Grace and Glory!