A quick search on Google for the saying ‘count your blessings’ brings up the hymn of the same name. It is meant to be an uplifting hymn reminding Christians of the many blessings we have received by God. Each verse places us in a situation that is difficult. The refrain quickly chimes in “Count your blessings, name them one by one.”
God has indeed blessed us abundantly, of this there is no dispute. Our doxology reminds us to “Praise God from whom all blessings flow.” God is indeed the source of life and giver of all things. We owe much, in fact we owe all we have to God.
However, in counting our blessings do we enter into a mindset of observing how we have been blessed? Do we count and name our blessings and then compare them to our neighbours, wondering when our next ‘blessing’ might come? We might not name it as such, but there is a real danger to counting our blessings.
Text: James 1: 17-27
Questions for Sunday:
- What matters most in your life, giving or receiving?
- Can giving also be a blessing?
Prayer for Sunday:
Gracious God, I have received from you far more than I have ever expected. You created all things for me to enjoy, hills and valleys, streams and meadows. All these you have provided for my enjoyment. Even more you gave of yourself through Jesus Christ so that I might live forever with you. Truly I am blessed and I give you thanks and praise. Amen.