Blessings

This morning was a wonderful time as I reflected on some precious blessings that the Lord has consistently and faithfully placed in my life. I am so glad that I was able to ponder these things before what happened this afternoon, as it was affirmation that He was refining my heart to be right before Him without the knowledge of the huge blessing that was to come. First, let me say that in light of the recent unexpected circumstances that have come in the past couple of weeks (namely, receiving those traffic violations:), I have had moments of sinful worry about how I would manage graduate school expenses this summer, as well as some other financial burdens that have arisen. However, as I was driving to a meeting this morning, I began to think upon all the ways that God has blessed me, both in physical and spiritual care. So even as I was driving, I was making a list in my mind of these blessings, planning to share them. So here are my reflections:

1. a saving faith in Christ Jesus, which more and more becomes my true and solitary enjoyment in life, and comforts me even when I feel like I don't belong or fit in
2. a mother and father who love me unconditionally and sacrificially, who have always given up their own pursuits to allow me to pursue missions opportunities and now further education
3. a legacy of biblical womanhood from my grandmother and mother (I have fond memories of learning to cook/bake with them, watching and hearing them read the Word diligently, being certain of their constant prayers for me, seeing them serve in the church since I was a baby by caring for the needs of others - all completely without a desire for recognition)
4. a church family that I providentially became a part of almost ten years ago, where I am cared for like a daughter by my pastors, corrected with love, equipped with diligent truth, given opportunity to minister as a single woman, and restored to joy even during times of difficulty
5. a home where I am comfortable and have all that I need, provided within my family's means by sweet landlords who care for us much more than just as tenants
6. friends - what can I even say to this point, as I have been given so many precious relationships that have impacted my life far more than I ever imagined
7. a joyful role as Auntie Melissa to Addy and Rory, bringing me endless memories of being able to nurture and even spoil a little
8. a distinct opportunity to be sharpened and equipped for ministry through my schooling at The Master's College as I train for a degree in biblical counseling - it amazes me how the Lord brought me to this point!
9. health that allows me to maintain a busy schedule without undue hindrances
10. surprise blessings from dear family and friends (this item includes a multitude of examples!)such as special dinner invitations, transportation assistance, thoughtful gifts, provisions for my schooling, fun getaways - all given by those who were motivated solely by a selfless love to extend their own blessings to include me

My list could certainly go on if I took more time to consider these things, but as I contemplated it this morning, I was moved to tears and almost had to pull off the road. How could I ever doubt that my God would not supply all my needs according to His riches and glory when He has provided so much in all my 32 years? Without exception, every need that has ever come up - He has always been faithful to meet in some way or another!

It brings to mind this song by Sara Groves entitled, He's Always Been Faithful To Me:
Morning by morning I wake up to find
The power and comfort of God's hand in mine
Season by season I watch Him, amazed
In awe of the mystery of His perfect ways
All I have need of, His hand will provide
He's always been faithful to me.

I can't remember a trial or a pain
He did not recycle to bring me gain
I can't remember one single regret
In serving God only, and trusting His hand
All I have need of, His hand will provide
He's always been faithful to me.

This is my anthem, this is my song
The theme of the stories I've heard for so long
God has been faithful, He will be again
His loving compassion, it knows no end
All I have need of, His hand will provide
He's always been faithful, He's always been faithful
He's always been faithful to me.

So, if you are wondering what blessing came this afternoon, it was a awe-filled one! This may sound funny, but my Mom and I have been looking to figure out what we could sell in order to make money to help with my school expenses for this summer (since I have to travel to CA for a month to attend classes). We decided to take some old jewelry, most of which had no real sentimental value, and sell it to one of those random places where they buy gold. Needless to say, we received FAR, FAR more than we ever thought possible! The important part though, was that God was already moving in my heart this morning to be thankful and reflective of all that He has given me before I even knew that my Mom was going to go do this today. I am so thankful for His perfect timing and how he ordains all things so that I am left with nothing to say other than, "Blessed be the name of the Lord!"