Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Psalm 103:1 (NIV).
Last time we were together, I shared with you the only way to be completely filled in this life is through Jesus Christ. Relationships, careers, hobbies, money, and objects won’t fill us but instead tend to leave us wanting more. However, when we allow ourselves to be filled by our Heavenly Father, then we’re much more able to see the blessings that surround every one of us. I wanted to take time today, on Valentine’s Day, to share with you some of the blessings in my life. I pray that my list will get you thinking about the many different ways you also are blessed by those who are special in your life:
I am blessed to be married to my best friend; someone I love to laugh with, who will hold me when I’m sad, and who loves me enough to tackle the hard conversations when necessary to help me be the best person I can be.
I am blessed that our marriage is one of partnership and unity: We worship the same God, raise our children with the same values, and enjoy many of the same activities and hobbies.
I am blessed that my husband and I embrace each other’s differences, allowing the other to be who he (or she) is without judgment. I am blessed my husband loves me despite my flaws.
I am blessed to be a mother of four: three here on Earth and one waiting for me in Heaven. I am blessed that even when I’m bone tired after a hard day they occasionally will fight over who gets to sit next to me or ask me to play a game, read a book, or watch a movie.
I am blessed to work from home. Even though at times it can be crazy, I don’t have to miss out on the daily influence I have in their lives, even as it challenges me to “take it to the next level” with my attitudes, actions, and choices.
I am blessed to have a husband who supports my dreams. I am blessed to be able to support his.
I am blessed we have enough money to keep food on the table, shelter over our heads, and a little extra now and again for something fun.
I am blessed with parents and parents-in-law who are willing to watch our kids so my husband and I can spend time together, remembering why we fell in love in the first place and having time to dream about our future.
I am blessed with parents and parents-in-law who are willing to help entertain their grandkids while I’m working. That breaks up their boredom and gives me a few hours to think uninterrupted.
I am blessed with time to create memories with our extended family. My whole family is blessed from trips we have taken together and the promise of future trips to come.
I am blessed with terrific friends who support me, challenge me, encourage me, inspire me, laugh with me, comfort me, and overall put up with me.
Lastly, and most importantly, I am blessed to be a child of God: I make mistakes, I have many flaws, and no matter how many times I hit the restart button I have to keep hitting it again and again. However, because of Jesus Christ dying for my sins, I stand before God redeemed, forgiven, blameless, and perfect.
This last blessing is a gift freely offered to each one of us. I’m not special or unique or chosen any more than you are, my Friend. God has offered this gift to all humankind, no matter how many mistakes you have made, how imperfect you are, or how many times you have had to hit the restart button in your life.
This Valentine’s Day, if you haven’t already accepted the best gift of all, why not consider choosing it today? It will forever change your life and “I am blessed” will take on a completely new meaning for you personally!
