Simple Blessings

I remember as a child singing an old hymn written by Johnson Oatman Jr.

I believe the truth of this song rings true today and for every moment. The hymn is Count Your Blessings (published 1897).

Here is the first refrain and chorus.

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

This morning I attended a men's breakfast at a very small church. A few men gathered around a table to eat and fellowship. The pastor who recently recovered from open heart surgery encouraged us to be godly and set the example in our homes. There was no moving music, no flashy PowerPoint presentation or some other form of entertainment. Men were themselves but without pretense or competitiveness. The message was simple but yet profound for the words spoken by the pastor was evident of God's truth lived in this godly man. We prayed and there was tears.

The Holy Spirit always moves in a place of simplicity where hearts are graced with humility.

Later that afternoon my wife and I walked over to a church that offers the community a free meal. I sat across from a man who seemed to have weathered life's more difficult times. He ate in silence and afterwards left his seat before anyone could take notice. Another man slipped into his chair. My eyes drifted around the room to see others that appear poor and needy. Souls enjoying a free meal and later would be given food and other items to take home. It was this simple but important need to eat that had complete strangers sitting around the table. Again, no feel good music, entertainment or message.

On the way home we recounted His blessings - when a recent storm knocked out power in one building but our lights still remained on - and the delicious food we ate - and the men's meeting - and on we went recalling His many blessings. Something wonderful and sweet happened in that moment. Complaining died. The urge of wanting more and never being satisfied with present provision disappeared.

Beloved start with Psalms 103. I believe when we recount His blessings we find great peace and perspective of the care and goodness of God. Thank Him for both the blessings and times of bleeding - when life's storms assault or when things go from bad to worse - He is still in control and knows what is best for us.

For today with the great food and fellowship Psalms 103:5 means much more to me. "Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's (KJV).