“What do you have that you did not receive from our gracious and generous God? And if you did receive it as a gift, why do you boast as though you didn’t—as though everything you have is self-generated or deserved?” (Paraphrase of 1 Cor. 4:7)
Heavenly Father, I woke up today in a beauty-soaked, friendship-kissed, fish-laden, awe-fueling spot in your wonderful world—Vermont. I haven’t had maple syrup yet, but that will happen. I want to start this day in the Spirit of the Scripture above by saying “Thank You!” for a wide array of gifts I have only because of you.
Father—always first, thank you for an over-the-top glorious salvation in Jesus. By your sovereign goodness, you revealed the depth of my need, and then you lavished the riches of the Gospel on me. I’m hidden in Christ, standing in grace, and rooted in your love. Hallelujah!
I am an object of your constant affection and a subject in your unshakeable kingdom, a focus of Jesus’ prayers and a child in whom you greatly delight. These things alone mock my whining and pining, carping and harping. But there’s so much more. You have also given me …
- A roof over my head and heaven as my home
- An incredible wife, an amazing family to love, and your Story to live
- Friends with whom to know and love you, catch fish and laugh loud
- Eyes to behold creation’s wonder and more of your glory in it
Father, I also praise you today for …
- Freeing me to live with more mystery and trust
- Helping me be less busy and more present more of the time
- Ongoing healing of my heart wounds and wilting my shame
Father, I love you. Thank you for being so astonishingly generous with me. So Very Amen
