True Fulfillment & Joy
That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Matthew 6:25-27
A week ago, I discussed taking a pause to reflect on the things we are given. As a result, I have incorporated this practice more into my daily routine. This week, the focus was on my grandchildren. My relationship with each of them has evolved as they have grown older, allowing me to share some of the wisdom I have acquired. With one grandchild, I shared the idea of being appreciative of what they have received. With another, I showed them a lighter side of their grandfather. With yet another, I took on a mentoring role by emphasizing the importance of having a plan for school to ensure their grades improve. This approach is intentional because the benefits of being a younger grandparent can hopefully lead to more meaningful years spent together, but it is important not to take this time for granted.
What are the things that we take for granted in life? When we have troubles, do we consider the situation that led us to this moment? Often, the provisions and circumstances that allow us to make it to this day are overlooked. For instance, concerns about physical strain as we age can overshadow the fact that being able to walk, think, lift, and cook dinner are abilities not everyone possesses. These capabilities are significant aspects of daily life for many.
We should never take for granted the blessings we have received. There are numerous aspects of our lives that exceed our expectations and what we believe we deserve. Recently, it was highlighted how fortunate many of us are. For instance, earning more than $65,000 annually places individuals within the 60th to 70th percentile of income earners in the United States, and in the 99th percentile of global earners. 2 Corinthians 9:8-9 says:
And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say,
“They share freely and give generously to the poor.
Their good deeds will be remembered forever.”
The purpose of mentioning this is not to emphasize wealth, as some individuals may be experiencing financial hardship. Rather, it serves to offer perspective on our circumstances and how abundantly we have been blessed, irrespective of our current financial status. This does not suggest that those facing poverty are not blessed. Instead, it reminds those with greater means to contribute more, recognizing the abundance they have been given. A pastor recently reminded me that none of these possessions truly belong to us. Therefore, we should look at our place in life and, “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
We should take a moment to reflect on the profound truth that God’s love and provision are constants in our lives, even when we fail to see them. We are enveloped in His grace. The simple joys of life, the laughter of our grandchildren, the warmth of a meal shared, and the comfort of a safe home are all reminders of His abundant blessings. Let us carry forward the wisdom of gratitude, recognizing that our lives are rich with gifts that cannot be measured by material wealth alone. What daily blessing in our life might be overlooked or taken for granted? How can we share the blessings we have received with others, especially those in need? My prayer is we give thanks, for this is the path to true fulfillment and joy in Christ. Amen.