Day by Day - Dec. 17, 2009

Sometimes when you don't feel like praying, or you're consumed with needing to speak to the Lord but can't gather the words, try that old standby—count your many blessings, count them one by one.

lt's amazing how you can get carried away from worries and woes and self concern when you start naming out loud what you're thankful for. Right away your focus shifts from your needs to the Father's graciousness and love. Try this:

LOOK UP . . . thank You, Lord . . .

for Your sovereign control over our circumstances 
for Your holy character in spite of our sinfulness 
for Your Word that gives us direction 
for Your grace that removes our guilt

LOOK AROUND . . . thank You, Lord . . .

for our wonderful country 
for close family ties 
for an opportunity to help others 
for a place to live, clothes to wear, food to eat

LOOK WITHIN . . . thank You, Lord . . .

for eyes that see the beauty of Your creation 
for minds that are curious, creative, and competent 
for memories of pleasures and recent accomplishments 
for broken dreams and lingering afflictions that humble us 
for a sense of humor that brings healing and hope

He is worthy of our highest praise and gratitude. To Him goes all the glory.

If you can't pray, make a personalized list of blessings.

Excerpted from Day by Day with Charles Swindoll, Copyright © 2000 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. (Thomas Nelson Publishers). All rights reserved worldwide. Used by permission.