We often take for granted the many blessings that God bestows on us daily. Remember this old song:

This sounds easy but during times of discouragement, counting your blessings may be the last thing you want to do. When we accidentally hit our finger with a hammer, all we can think about is the pain in that finger. We forget about all the parts of our bodies that are not hurting. In the same way, when our circumstances seem to bury us with discouragement, it seems all we can think about are the parts of our lives that are weighing us down.

But God sees our pain and suffering. He knows how life can feel hopeless at times. What does He tell us to do in those times? His Word give us great insight. Listen to the following:

Psalm 34:17-18

“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

What is the blessing here? God hears us when we cry out, and He is close to us and saves us when we are crushed in spirit. Thank you, Lord, for always hearing me when I cry out to You, and for saving me when I am crushed in spirit.

Philippians 4:6-7

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

The blessing here showcases the peace that passes all understanding when we bring every situation to the Lord, with thanksgiving. We can pray, “Father, I praise You for guarding my heart and mind in Christ Jesus as I go through this discouraging time. Please help me do what Your Word says in Philippians 4:8: “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

The doxology says, “Praise God from whom all blessings flow…” Those blessings include what seems like mundane, take-it-for-granted comforts – running water, hot showers, abundant food to eat, clothes to wear, friends, transportation, God’s creation we get to enjoy like birds, squirrels, dogs, trees, flowers, gentle breezes, and on and on.

Our greatest blessing always will be our salvation in Jesus Christ. No matter what our circumstances, we remain a child of God, destined for heaven and eternal joy. May we not let discouragement steal our joy in the blessings God gives us on earth. Instead, may we count our blessings one by one and praise Him for the great things He has done!

​