I'm catching up on my thanksgivings because it was time for bed when we arrived home from small group, so better late than never...
Last night, our small group shared a meal together to celebrate Thanksgiving. Afterwards, we had a time where we could share the things for which we were thankful. Our pastor encouraged us to be thankful for the good and trying seasons which we may be in, and it was a blessing to hear others voice their thanks to God.
Our family is coming out of a difficult time into a fresh start for our lives, so I am thankful for both sides of this coin. I'm thankful for the suffering God allowed us to experience. I may not have thought so at the time, but I can see the fruit in my daughter's life and my own life as well.
Also, as John Flavel writes,"Sufferings endear the family of God to each other." As I looked around the room last night, I was thankful for the brothers and sisters who came to court multiple times to stand with me, who prayed for us, our pastor and his wife who were always there to counsel us, the saints who helped stage our home for sale, the brothers who trimmed bushes, moved furniture and boxes, fixed ceiling cracks, siding, and windows, the saints who helped us move and unpack our kitchen, and the list goes on. I am humbled by their love for us.
So even though it's not the New Year, where one traditionally looks back at the past and towards the future, I am at a loss for words to express my thanks to God for how He has kept us these last 4 years.
This beautiful sunny morning, a new day which He has made, I look forward to whatever He may have in store for us.
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end. Lamentations 3:22
Last night, our small group shared a meal together to celebrate Thanksgiving. Afterwards, we had a time where we could share the things for which we were thankful. Our pastor encouraged us to be thankful for the good and trying seasons which we may be in, and it was a blessing to hear others voice their thanks to God.
Our family is coming out of a difficult time into a fresh start for our lives, so I am thankful for both sides of this coin. I'm thankful for the suffering God allowed us to experience. I may not have thought so at the time, but I can see the fruit in my daughter's life and my own life as well.
Also, as John Flavel writes,"Sufferings endear the family of God to each other." As I looked around the room last night, I was thankful for the brothers and sisters who came to court multiple times to stand with me, who prayed for us, our pastor and his wife who were always there to counsel us, the saints who helped stage our home for sale, the brothers who trimmed bushes, moved furniture and boxes, fixed ceiling cracks, siding, and windows, the saints who helped us move and unpack our kitchen, and the list goes on. I am humbled by their love for us.
So even though it's not the New Year, where one traditionally looks back at the past and towards the future, I am at a loss for words to express my thanks to God for how He has kept us these last 4 years.
This beautiful sunny morning, a new day which He has made, I look forward to whatever He may have in store for us.
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end. Lamentations 3:22
These are beautiful words, Persis, and they bring tears to my eyes. I'm glad you are seeing the fruit not only in your own life but also in your daughter's. What a blessing that you had and have your church family. What amazing support they gave you and continue to give you. You must feel very rich indeed.
ReplyDeleteYes...how God has kept you. His keeping is a precious thing.
Sending hugs across the miles and rejoicing with you!
That is so wonderful that you can thank Him for the suffering!
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you have a wonderful, loving church family. I thank God with you for them and pray for His continued strength and comfort for you, Persis.
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