a word of encouragement

I was talking with Jesus the other day, and this is me just being totally real with you, and I was thanking Him for being so good and faithful to me. I've learned over the years to be in constant thanks; it helps kick the worries and the stresses in the face. I often find myself thanking God for the littlest and silliest of things, but good things no less, that have brought me even the slightest bit of joy. For instance, and I'm aware this may make me sound insane, for whatever reason anytime I find myself in a foul mood, I will come across the cutest baby animal that instantly puts a smile on my face. Like a miniature horse that happens to be grazing in a field on my way home from a bad day at work, or a tiny mouse scurrying across the road just after having a tough conversation, or a tiny dog just sitting in a front seat after feeling completely overwhelmed... Yes, it may be coincidence, or it just may be God sending me a message, perfectly tailored to who I am, to remind me that He is good, He loves me and He is for me, not against me - and then I give thanks. 

So back to my original story, I was in the car the other day, thanking Jesus and I began to think of moments passed when I missed out on the opportunity of being thankful. There are times in our lives where things go awry and we trust God, we pray, and we accept the fate that is upon us, but how often do we find ourselves thanking Him for those circumstances? You see in this moment of thanks, I grew strong in my heart. I did not thank Him because my life was perfect, I was appreciating Him through my struggle; that although life did not feel as I thought it would, it was indeed a part of His plan and I was ever thankful to be a part of that plan. 

It's in the struggle that our love for Him can either wither away, being easily swayed by circumstances, or it can settle in and begin to grow roots, it can trust and bathe in the beauty that is faith - faith in things hoped for, believing in the unseen and knowing that God is indeed on our side. 

I don't know your current state, but whatever it may be, remember to be thankful. It may not always feel like the best life, or even the life you imagined, but it is certainly a beautiful gift - enjoy every moment and give thanks! It's a wonderful feeling to be grateful. In fact I think it is more rewarding on this end than it is to receive the thanks; although that's always nice too!  I hope you have a lovely day!

xo.

Melisa