Enjoying Life in 2012

I wonder how much of my life has been wasted thinking about the future instead of enjoying what I've been given in each moment.

"When you are very conscious of your faults, do not be discouraged by them, but confess them to God. Then peaceably resume your usual practice of love and adoration of God." Brother Lawrence.

First Thessalonians 5:16-18 reminds us to "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" (NASB). God has blessed us with so many earthly joys and opportunities.

As we begin a new year, let's each one of us, each day, pick one and offer up a moment of praise for it. Enjoy the beauty around you with God. He's pleased when we notice all the gorgeous things He's made for us.

You see, dear reader, each of us has been blessed in abudance. Often, we focus on all the dark ugly things in our lives and in the world forgetting that there is One who is in control of all things. We may not always understand but we — you and I — can look beyond these disapointments, these painful times and find beauty in everthing that comes our way if only we look for the good and wonderful opportunities He has given each of us.

Join me (won't you?) in Thanking God for the ministry work He's given us, what He has called each of us to do. Thank Him for all the people around us who love us and cheer us on day by day as we meet each new day this new year, complete with all its challenges that we might have that victory through Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.

Believe with me, that we can ( note the word "can"), do all things through Christ who gives us the strength and courage to have victory in all the opportunities that come our way. I pray that in this new year we will seek out these opportunities daily.

Happy New Year! Amen.