Counting Your Blessings

by | Nov 21, 2018 | From James' Desk

How long would it take to follow the advice of the old hymn to count your many blessings AND name them one by one? I don’t know about you, but my list would be incredibly long. Often it seems easier to focus on the things we don’t have, which is nothing more than a recipe for discontentment. We read in 1 Timothy 6:6 that “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” I have often meditated on—and been challenged by—that verse. In Philippians 4, the Apostle Paul wrote,

“For I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

I believe that a big part of Paul’s “secret” is being thankful in all things. Thankful for God’s abundant love, grace and provision. Thankful for family, church and friends. The list goes on and on!

And for me, a big item on my list is this wonderful ministry of SSI that I have been blessed to be a part of for more than 25 years. What started out as a little side project has grown exponentially. But it has not always been a bed of roses. There have been some extremely difficult seasons that sometimes drove me to despair. But all along the way, I have been personally blessed beyond measure by the incredible people God brought into my life. I give thanks for my close friends, prayer partners, co-laborers, board members, counsellors, volunteers, donors. They have challenged me, encouraged me, prayed for me and loved me way beyond what I deserve.

So, in this season of Thanksgiving, let’s all take some time to really think through our list of blessings and truly give thanks to God. And remember that all good things come from Him!!

James Muffett is the Founder and President of the Student Statesmanship Institute. Married to Margot since 1979 and a father of 5, his motivational speaking inspires and trains leaders for this and the next generation. James’ bucket list includes a visit to an SSI alum in the oval office.

 

Disclaimer: The views presented in this blog are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the position of the Student Statesmanship Institute. SSI is a non-profit educational organization and provides this blog as a platform for those who have been involved in our program to engage and share thoughts related to current events, issues of the day, and personal experiences, but does not necessarily endorse the content therein.