So Much to Be Thankful For

Not every blessing makes the news, but God still gives us plenty to be thankful for.

Theme: So Much to Be Thankful For
Verse: "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage!" (Psalm 33:12)

This week we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday. I didn’t plan it this way, but the number of the devotional in the book I’m adapting this from is #76. Coincidence? You be the judge.

There is a lot of negativity in our world today. News outlets often operate on the philosophy that “If it Bleeds, it Leads.” If we are not careful to keep things in proper perspective, the constant stream of negative headlines can become discouraging.

Yet there are many positive things that never make the news. For example, we have just finished graduation season, marking the conclusion of one chapter of life for many young adults and the beginning of another filled with opportunities and possibilities. Each day, millions of passengers travel across our country and around the world without incident, something that would have seemed like a fairy tale at the birth of our nation. In addition, more than 10,000 babies are born in U.S. hospitals every day to parents and grandparents who have anxiously awaited their arrival.

As we celebrate the birth of our country, this is a wonderful time to reflect on the many blessings we enjoy in the United States. While our nation is far from perfect, God has blessed us with abundant resources, remarkable opportunities, and a system of government that protects many of our freedoms.

Between the barbecues and fireworks this week, take a few moments to pray for our nation, for the world in which we live, and for those who may not enjoy the blessings that we often take for granted.

Happy Birthday, America!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley