It's very easy to complain. It's easy to imagine that our suffering, our struggles, are unlike any that others have experienced.
It's harder to see, especially in the tough times, that God's blessings are still around, that God remains faithful.
Look now to see what blessings God has in store for you today, especially if you are finding that hard to do.
I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. The wild animals will honor me, the jackals and the ostriches; for I give water in the wilderness, rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, the people whom I formed for myself so that they might declare my praise.
Isaiah 43:19-21
With these verses, we are reminded of God as the loving provider for all creatures; so it doesn’t really seem like a “new” thing. God will provide a way and life-giving water in the harsh desert for the animals and the people. These creatures, people included, are cared for, beloved, chosen. Maybe they will praise God after they have had a drink!
This is what is so striking: God does not pour forth blessings of miraculous rivers because God’s creatures are worthy, or even because they are begging for water. The provision is one of love and it is to give and sustain life. Praise for the Lord is just a natural result. We are blessed because God cares for us, and we are blessed when we are thankful.
Denise Nickerson-Caudéran
Lord, you provide much more than I need, giving freely and completely before I ask. When I drink it all in, give me the manners to stop and thank you. Help me to share all I have, all the while giving you the credit for every blessing. Amen.
God's blessings are raining down.
Walk with your face lifted up;
Lift your hands also to receive
The gift of God's presence,
The embrace of the One who is near.