A few weeks ago, we were digging out from a record breaking ice storm. It was a miserable experience and there were times I wondered if it would ever end.
Last week, I found a snake on our back porch. Considering the terrible cold spell we just went through, I was surprised snakes were already out. This got me thinking.
Nature has moved on. That doesn’t mean there won’t be more cold weather but spring is only twelve days away. Warm weather is on its way.
And just like I complained about how cold I was, I suspect when the unbelievably hot weather arrives, I will be moaning and groaning to Shannon that I am melting in the heat. But I think this year will be different.
Even though I have an incredibly short memory, I will do my best to remember how cold it was, as we slept on the floor in front of the fireplace, in a house with no heat or electricity. I will do my best to remember continually slipping on ice as I waddled out to the tanks with an ax to cut holes so the livestock would drink water. I will do my best to remember that cold hurts.
More importantly, I will do my best to remember how I felt when the ice melted, the plumbers made repairs, the electricity came on, and Shannon and I were able to sleep in our bed. I will remember to be thankful for the little things.
To be thankful is a choice each of us makes. That doesn’t mean there won’t be something to complain about. There always is. But if we look at the big picture, we can see God’s beautiful fingerprints everywhere. That’s what really matters.
So, as you face the challenges of a new week, you have a choice. You can be distracted by the little irritants of life or remember how good God is. One direction leads to misery and dissatisfaction. The other direction leads to joy, confidence, and peace. I hope you choose to be thankful.
This is what Paul meant by saying, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-7)
Challenges will always come. God is bigger than they are.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, so often I get bogged down by the little, inconvenient irritants of life. Help me focus on the big picture. Remind me of your power, grace, and love. Give me a grateful heart. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Today, the weather forecast says the high will be 72 degrees. Just like the snakes, I will enjoy it.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 