Yesterday as I was sitting in the choir loft looking out in the congregation, I could not help but feel sad at what I am to leave behind. I saw my good friends leading the worship and thought that I should relish the moment. I saw Donna Chapman, a friend and supporter of our ministry, worshiping the Lord. I saw Ken Hughes, who has been our faithful and loving pastor. I saw the friends who just the week before threw us a little “going away” party. I could not help but think how rich John and I are in friendships. We have been blessed by God. We don’t deserve it, but He has blessed us any way.
Then that evening John and I presented the ministry to our church. Wow! All I can say is awesome! God is amazing. God used us as instruments for Him, and He blessed us by the gifts of others. What a generous “family” we have. So we drive away on Thursday, not depressed but blessed. Even though we have few possessions, God has taught me that you don’t need “things” to be wealthy.
Some days life is just plain hard, isn’t it? It is in those times that I will count my blessings, for we have many. In the words of the great hymn Count Your Blessings:
When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings. Wealth can never buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.
So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be disheartened, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.
Melissa,
That is a good old hymn ( Count your Blessings), which few young people are aware of today. The old hymns contain great doctrine and encouragement. Make sure you take a hymn book with you.
Matt
We’ll be praying for you as you drive on Thursday.
I’ll be praying for safe travelling mercies as to embark on your next adventure with God.
I love that hymn too! Go knowing God is with you, guiding you and protecting you. I am so glad I met you and get to go with you vicariously thru this blog! Love you lots, DC girl!
I love you attitude through all this!! It is wonderful to hear that you and John are fully trusting in God! It is a great feeling being in the center of God’s will for you! We are praying for you guys!