5 Minutes of Joy: “Count it all Joy”
(This fell away for a bit with computer troubles and the months without my camera. Still waiting on that camera and re-posting photos..but IT”S TIME!!)
On Mondays, I take a few minutes to write the things that I am thankful for. This project has been a HUGE blessing to me! I’m not sure that there’s a better way to start the week!
1028. Crisp morning air
1029. Pink cheeks at the playground
1030. Little wisps of hair in motion on the swing.
1031. Running into a friend
1032. Meeting new friends
1033. The happy little girl who had excitement spill over when she saw Blue.
1034. The Sunday school teacher that has joy in abundance – teaches kids to love my boy – lends them her vantage point – to see beyond the chair – to see the boy first and foremost!
1035. Fruit roll ups
1036. The tatters of plastic and fruit in sticky hands. (Forgot to show Kate how to eat one.)
1037. Edifying tweets
1038. Gathering with the body of Christ to worship Him
1039. The beauty of voices raised together to praise His name
1040. The preaching of His word.
1041. Precious sabbath rest
1042. Time to talk and smile and be 2 people – John and I.
1043. The privilege of praying for our country
1044. The precious words of 2 Chronicles 7:14
“if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
1045. The hope that we have. The hope that never dies, no matter what trials may lay ahead or behind
1046. The privilege of praying for other special needs mothers out there via (in)able.
1047. Embracing “the joy of the Lord” that is “my strength” in this act of thanksgiving!
1048. The words of James 1 – in the end, we can “count it all joy” …and even in these trials, we can see the ever shining face of his goodness. The clouds are temporary, and in the end…if we let the perseverance grow, we will “not lack anything!” That kind of contentment is worth fighting for! That kind of joy is beyond price!
God Moves in Mysterious Ways
God moves in a mysterious way,
His wonders to perform;
He plants his footsteps in the sea,
And rides upon the storm.Deep in unfathomable mines
Of never failing skill,
He treasures up his bright designs,
And works his sovereign will.Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take,
The clouds ye so much dread
are big with mercy, and shall break
In blessings on your head.Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,
But trust him for his grace;
Behind a frowning providence,
He hides a smiling face.His purposes will ripen fast,
Unfolding every hour;
The bud may have a bitter taste,
But sweet will be the flower.Blind unbelief is sure to err,
And scan his work in vain;
God is his own interpreter,
And he will make it plain.William Cowper (1731–1800)
William Cowper was a British poet and hymnist. He struggled throughout his life with depression, doubts, and fears.
a Rearranged Life 
Thanks, Miriam, for introducing me to Mr. Cowper. I’m going to do some more research – he sounds quite genuine. And I’m so glad to be counting joyful graces with you too. Today the counting seems to be the only thing keeping me afloat, though I know His hands will never let me drown.
Hey Robyn! I’m sure you will love reading about Cowper! His faith and struggles encourage me, in a way. The counting sustains doesn’t it?! ….or more like He sustains when we look to him in gratitude!
May He bless you with joy in your counting!