Psalm 128:1,2 tell us, “How joyful are those who fear the Lord all who follow his ways! You will enjoy the fruit of your labor. How joyful and prosperous you will be!”

I, like many of us, find myself, occasionally focusing on all those things I want, hope for, and pray for but feel frustrated not having. Sometimes we think, we are living the lives God desires, but feel like we are not receiving the blessing the Bible promises. When this type of feelings come upon us, these lyrics from an old hymn, help me put things in perspective.

“When upon life’s billows
You are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged,
Thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings,
Name them one by one,
And it will surprise you
What the Lord hath done.
(John Oatman Jr.)

When we stop and think about the incredible blessings we all have, it takes away any reason we have to complain or be disappointed.

Dear Lord, we only need to take a look around to see the amazing blessings you have provided us. Our human nature leads us to take for granted what we have, and dwell on what we don’t have. Help us keep our perspective in order, count our blessings and be thankful to you for all you have done for us, most importantly our eternal salvation. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.