Their Blessing Bag

Karen and her husband faced a number of hardships that seemed overwhelming: lost commissions in her husband's business, turmoil in their children's lives, and unresolved issues between the two of them. She thought she'd never have peace in her life again.

Then a woman suggested they write their blessings on slips of paper and put them in a box or bag. Occasionally they were to occasionally draw out what they had written.

Karen and her husband knew they had to try this. At first it was hard to find things to be grateful for amid so much stress. But they found a silver gift bag, placed a label on it reading "Our Blessing Bag," and set it in their bedroom with a small pad of paper and a pen beside it.

They began recording their blessings, and within about six months their bag overflowed. One morning, they dumped the bag on their bed and began reading. Karen grabbed one slip and read it aloud, then another and another. What a joy to read and experience these gifts again: a surprise visit from a dear friend, the safe arrival of a new grandchild, an old hurt healed through patience and prayer, a misunderstanding with a co-worker cleared up. On and on she read.

Then her husband took a handful and continued. By the time they reached the last scrap of paper, they were in tears. How could they ever again doubt that God provided for their every need!

I praise You, Father, for Your great faithfulness.

"I have hope...for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness" (Lamentations 3:21-23).