I know it’s not Thanksgiving Day, but why wait? We give thanks to people every day.
When someone holds the door open, we say, “Thank you.” Or, when a friend treats us to lunch, gives us a ride, or listens to us with compassion while we share a personal struggle, then offers to pray with us or give an encouraging word.
We’re to give thanks to God, too. It couldn’t be made any simpler than three short verses in First Thessalonians 5:16-18 (BSB): Rejoice at all times; Pray without ceasing; Give thanks in every circumstance.
That last one is more of a challenge than the rest.
Why am I focused on thanks today? It’s because of something that happened a year ago. On March 21, 2024, I fell and broke the ball off my right femur. That required a partial hip replacement.
One of the caregivers at the rehab facility had a funny comeback. I said, “I was eighty before I took my first fall.” He said, “Why’d you wait so long?” I said, “I could have waited longer (which in my mind was NEVER!).
I would love to wipe that day out of my mind, but I can’t, for several reasons. A best friend and caregiver, reminds me I need to be thankful for all the good things God has done for me this past year. She’s right!
So . . . I’ve been counting my blessings: (1) No pain while waiting for medical transport . . . I was probably in shock, (2) a good surgeon, (3) friends who came to ER, (4) good hospital care, (5) helpful rehab therapy, (6) friends and family scheduled 24/7 for three weeks of home care, (7) rides for six weeks of therapy, and (8) consistent encouragement and prayer from my church, family, and friends.
Furthermore, I’m thankful I can drive, and I only need a cane when I leave the house.
My two Goddaughters and Best Friend often tell me how good I’m doing. I take them seriously because they saw me at my worst, before surgery and during recovery.
Giving thanks is part of my chosen lifestyle. God is good and so are His people.
James 5:13 says if we’re happy, we should sing. I do! But I also say, “Thank you, God, for Your excellent provision and the way You met my needs during recovery this past year. Amen.”
I’m so thankful for Gods hand on my life during a heart attack a month ago and all the wonderful care and prayers on my behalf. Jesus is the light of my life! RS
ReplyDeleteI too am grateful for recovery from a torn aquiles tendon. It was a long recovery but The Lord gave me the grace to endure the boot, the brace, and the therapy. Thinking how good it is to wear my own shoes again, but joked in the boot about starting a new fashion trend. God was so faithful through it all and ultimately surprised my doctor with a full recovery sooner than expected. I think when you truly believe that God directs your path, the frustration is turned to acceptance and peace. You believe that He will work All things for good. Somewhere in the mix of the unexpected or unwanted event God is always working His good purposes even if it is just to teach us patience. I did some great people in my physical therapy sessions and had opportunities to share my faith! Thankyou God for allowing me to experience your faithfulness!
ReplyDelete