This is a question that was in the middle of my devotion this morning. What keeps me from being thankful for every last thing? Rejection and silence of family members and friends, a burned finger on a stove, chaos and disorder, being criticized for a decision made, bills unpaid, stepping in dog poop, feeling anxiety or the sadness of depression…lots of things attribute to a sense that there is nothing for which to be grateful.

But I am also reminded today:

Psalm 42:5

Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul?
    Why are you crying the blues?
Fix my eyes on God—
    soon I’ll be praising again.
He puts a smile on my face.
    He’s my God.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live.

Philippians 4:6-7

Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.

Colossians 4:2

Pray diligently. Stay alert, with your eyes wide open in gratitude.

2 Corinthians 2:14

In the Messiah, in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory parade. Through us, he brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite fragrance. Because of Christ, we give off a sweet scent rising to God, which is recognized by those on the way of salvation—an aroma redolent with life.

I am grateful today is Friday. I am grateful that my brother is visiting my Dad. I am grateful that Sam is coming to spend the weekend. I am grateful that Natia is sleeping at my feet. I am grateful for a full night of sleep. I am grateful for a happy workplace. I am grateful that my sister is having new experiences. I am grateful for my vitamins. I am grateful for Chinese food for dinner last night. I am grateful for emails from Geri and Elaine. I am grateful for Mama and Ama anticipation of a visit when Karissa and family come to stay with us. I am grateful for the smell of clean clothes. I am grateful for no humidity. I am grateful for bacon. I am grateful for the stability and sense of peace that God’s Word provides my troubled heart.