The children sang last Sunday morning at the beginning of the worship service. It was wonderful to see and hear them. The song they sang has stayed with me this week, especially as we prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday.
“Count your Blessings” by Johnson Oatman, Jr. (public domain)
- 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 has done.
Refrain:
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God has done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.
- Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by. - When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings—money cannot buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high. - So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.
Life is full of things that don’t go well. There is plenty in every day that can leave us disappointed, frustrated, sad, or hurt. There is plenty of beauty, encouragement, and love to be found in each day. Life becomes more satisfying when we focus on the good and express more gratitude than grumpiness. Count your blessings and it will surprise you what the Lord has done.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Steve