Thankful For All

When I passed by this picture the other day, it reminded me of the story of the Ugly Duckling. How the duckling thought that he would never be beautiful like all the others. Then one day, after a long winter season, he caught a glimpse of his reflection in the lake. He was totally surprised at the maturity he saw in himself. At that glimpse, his soul was renewed.

This story also reminded me of my life’s journey. How God is taking me from an ugly duckling to a beautiful white swan full of purity and peace. Even though I may squirm through the process, He continues to faithfully lead me onward towards the wisdom He wants to impart. I may not notice my growth from day to day. However, at special times, God reveals the mirror of His love to let me admire the beauty He has formed inside my heart.

On this day before Thanksgiving amidst all the activity around me, I will be taking time to remember everything I am thankful for. Here are just a few.

I am thankful for salvation for without it life would not be worth living.

I am thankful for the challenges, the hard times I’ve faced. Each of those experiences has shaped my character into the person I am today.

  

I am thankful to my family and others for their encouragement and help when I needed to be uplifted or set straight.

Most of all, I am thankful to God for He is the one that orchestrated every growth process and love me though to the other side. He upheld me with His strength and courage even when I was to weak to ask. He put His people on my pathway to hold my hand/heart and keep me going forward. He never gave up on me even though I told him I didn't think I was going make it. He helped me to remember his faithfulness is everlasting.

And last but not least, I am thankful for the genuine smile on my face because of God's love and joy I have been able to store in my heart. This godly character displayed in my life will hopefully witness to others there is hope and comfort for them too!

What has God taught you this year that you are so thankful He did? Spend some time remembering what has made you who you are today. Then take time to anticipate the growth thus far and the growth to come. God is not finished with you yet. The best is yet to come. Allow those thoughts to comfort you and give you hope.