With a Thankful Heart

“God has two dwellings: one in heaven,

and the other in the meek and thankful heart.”

-- Isaac Walton

So often we’re asking, asking, and asking for the things we want from God. It’s time once again to talk about an attitude of gratitude.

For almost a year now, my friend Peggy and I have been keeping what we call our “Blessings Journals.” We started out with two identical journals, our favorite pens, and a goal of recording 1,000 blessings in each book. The fun part is that we swap journals every 2-3 weeks and continue recording our blessings in the other persons’ journal.

Last week it was time once again for our “swap,” and guess what? We have recorded almost 500 blessings in each book. Half-way there, but we’ve also decided that the number doesn’t matter anymore. Holding each other accountable and sharing our gratitude, has blessed us both more than we can put in to words. There are some days when the only blessing might be, “the day is finally over.” Other days, God’s abundant blessings never seem to end. It may be a "thank you" for patience, an unexpected check in the mail, a phone call from a friend, bird's chirping in the early morning, a handmade card from a grandchild, a beautiful sunrise, or a slice of cheesecake.  The size or number of our blessings doesn’t matter ... it is the attitude, our changed hearts and the joy found in reading the other persons blessings. It is worshipping God with a grateful prayer and a thankful heart.

I think we’ve both decided that we need to continue our shared journals forever.    { s m i l i n g }

With a grateful prayer ...

Each one of us have been given more than we’ll ever know.

and a thankful heart ...

Whatever we think about throughout the day affects our attitude.

We worship you, Lord.

Joy, peace, healing, prosperity, salvation - just a few of our many blessings.

I just love this quote, it says it all ... “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.” -Melody Beady

 
It’s Friday, Let’s “Sparkle” ... action required ... Below are some tips for beginning your own Blessings Journal. Why not consider sharing your gratitude with a friend – twice the blessings and twice the fun! I have also included some scripture verses you could pass along to someone that might need to realize all of the blessings in their life.
 
Go Shopping, be Creative - You can use a beautiful hardbound journal, a plain blank inexpensive notebook, or a simple collection of blank notecards tied together with a beautiful ribbon.

Pick your Style of Journaling – Make a list, write a prayer, jot a thank note to Jesus – simple words or eloquent writing, it’s your choice.

Make a Commitment – Having an attitude of gratitude, a thankful heart, is a discipline. It’s best to try to make a plan – once a day, three times a week, every Sunday, whatever works with your schedule. Be consistent.

Don’t give up! – If you find that you are skipping a day, forgetting to write, or saying to yourself “I’ll start again tomorrow,” pray and ask God for willpower and self-discipline. Another great idea is to ask someone to hold you accountable.

“Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon his name, make

known his deeds among the people” - 1 Chronicles 16:8

"Enter into his gates with thanksgiving,

and into his courts with praise: be thankful

unto him, and bless his name” - Psalms 100:4

Below is a link to a Youtube video of a song entitled “With a Thankful Heart,” by Don Moen. Please enjoy and have a blessed weekend.

God’s Peace, Donna Weaver

Don Moen – “With a Thankful Heart”

http://vodpod.com/watch/15731653-don-moen-with-a-thankful-heart-with-lyrics

Reflections on Psalm 100 and SHARED BLESSINGS

“God has two dwellings: one in heaven,

and the other in the meek and thankful heart.”

- Isaac Walton

I was thinking about some of the scripture verses I memorized when I was young and Psalm 100 came to mind. Memorization never came easy for me, but once I finally accomplished the task, it stuck with me ... for a very long time. So, today as I was thinking about the psalm, I wasn’t surprised that the words flowed easily from my tongue ... and I felt a such a comfort and peace.

With Thanksgiving approaching, it is a great time to be looking at Psalm 100. Many people are dealing with terrible trials and tribulations in their lives, and find little to be thankful for. Most of you already know that after reading the book “One Thousand Gifts” by Ann Voskamp, I set out on a mission to find blessings in the simple, every-day things in my life. So yes, even amidst struggles and difficulties I have been able to find much to be thankful for. My advice for anyone searching for blessings in their life is to read this Psalm carefully.

• God is our creator and we are His creatures. We were not made by accident!

          He made us from nothing (dust).
          He made all things without help.
          He made all things “good.”

• “Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his people, the sheep of his pasture” (v. 3) ... that means He is our Shepherd. He is our refuge and leads us to safety (Psalm 8:52).

So why should we be donning this attitude of “gratitude?” Well, that answer can also be found in the words of Psalm 100. The psalmist tells us that the character of God reveals His goodness. He is benevolent, merciful, truthful, loving, faithful, and so much more.  He is worthy of our praise!   Ann Voskamp says it this way Eucharisteo (thanksgiving) always precedes our blessings (God’s goodness).”  

My friend, Peggy, and I have been faithful in keeping up our “Shared Blessings” journals. Every 2-3 weeks we pack up our journal and mail it to the other person. Once the journals have been swapped, we continue writing our list of blessings. It has become something that I look forward to with great expectation. Our friendship has been one of encouraging each other, discussing God’s word together, and praying for each other, but there is something special about reading Peggy’s handwritten musings ... I get to peek into her heart and understand more deeply her thoughts and reflections.

God’s Word has a similar effect on me. When I read my Bible, I feel that I am peeking into God’s heart and find unconditional love, security, hope and trust there. Maybe that is the peace which Paul was writing about in Philippians 4:7 (NIV) which says, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Have you ever stopped to think what your life would be like without Christ? I sure have! I would not be here writing about my blessings and thanking Him for not only my provisions, but all that He gives me above and beyond ... all the blessings I do not even deserve. This Thanksgiving we all need to give thanks for our blessings of the simple things, the Special (miraculous) blessings, and the blessing of Christ in our lives.

So, how are you going to “give thanks” this year? Are you counting your blessings? Why not share your attitude of gratitude with a friend. It’s twice the fun and twice the blessings.

In Psalm 34:8 (NLT) scripture tells us, “Taste and see that the LORD is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!” When we live a life filled with joy and peace, and offer thanksgiving to Him, God is glorified.

Chillin’ in His Peace, Donna Weaver

“The Lord gives strength to His people;

the Lord blesses His people with peace.”

– Psalms 29:11

TO-DO lists & Shared Blessings

“So I recommend having fun, because there is nothing
better for people in this world than to eat, drink, and
enjoy life. That way they will experience some happiness
along with all the hard work God gives them under the sun”
- Ecclesiastes 8:15

This morning I woke up and found it hard to climb out of bed. It wasn’t because I was tired, or was struggling to get to work... the reason was that my “to-do” list for my day off was so long that I dreaded trying to decide where to begin.  So, I grabbed a cup of hot cocoa, and with pen in hand, put a big X on my to-do list. Then I took out my blessings journal and began to add to my “thankful list.”

... a day off of work
... a sunny, cool morning
... freedom to choose my activities

As I was writing in my journal I noticed some other blessings that my friend, Peggy had written in my shared blessings journal when we had swapped books:

... the smell and taste of coffee
... hum of the dishwasher
... the feeling when a task is finished

Our “shared blessings journey” continues as we thank God in all things; the little joys, the unexpected blessings, and yes, even the hardships, disappointments, and challenges.  As I acknowledge my blessings, my "to-do's" don't seem so overwhelming.  Today instead of worrying about everything that I may or may not get done today, I will continue to thank God for the small things and He will help me prioritize the rest of my day.

Problem: Any to-do list can get out of control, becoming overwhelming and un-doable. When we feel anxious or overwhelmed, we can become less productive and even dysfunctional.

Solution: It is important to recognize that our time and energy is limited. We have but 24 hours in each day. We need to be sure to find time for God, time to take care of ourselves (exercise and rest), time to nurture relationships (family and friends) ... and we need to make sure our to-do list balances that reality.

Prevention: In order to avoid being overwhelmed in the future, I’ve come up with an idea. There are so many projects I want to do, but so many others I need to do - so I decided to write down my fun list – the things I WANT to do. This will be an on-going list so that when I do have a few minutes free, I can look at my list and find something I enjoy (fun, relaxing, stress-free) “to do.” I plan to keep my NEED to-do list to a maximum of 3 items. These items will most likely be time sensitive, urgent or a necessity. As I accomplish these tasks I can add to my list, but not before one is crossed off.   Today I’ve realized:

• After my time with God, work, school, and scheduled commitments, I have limited time available.

• It is important to be “thankful” ... when we realize our blessings first, we appreciate each and every minute of the day we have been given.

• I don’t have to have a “spring housecleaning” mentality every time I have a day off.... some tasks can wait until another day.

• It’s okay to think of a day-off as if I was “playing hooky” – maybe stay in my pj’s and read ALL DAY, or throw on a pair of jeans and head out for a day of garage sale-ing with lunch at my favorite coffee-shop, or maybe spend the day hanging out with a friend.

My new goal for today is to have fun and do some creative projects, and in between I may even tackle my 3 item list. Cleaning my bathroom before I get started on an art project, a few important phone calls during my afternoon break, and a couple loads of laundry tucked between my writing time this evening ... now that sounds like a schedule that God & I can handle together.

I can't wait to get started, I’m looking forward to a peace-filled day!  This is the day that the Lord has made and I will rejoice in it ... and when this day is over, I will thank God for the many blessings He has provided along the journey. 

It’s Friday, Let’s Sparkle... action required... Did you know that this Sunday, September 18th is National Back to Church Sunday. “Back to Church Sunday,” is a national movement to reverse declining church attendance and encourage former church-goers to rediscover church.

Although 83 percent of American adults identify themselves as Christians, only about 20 percent attend church on any given Sunday. Yet, a study by LifeWay Research and the North American Mission Board of over 15,000 Americans found that 67 percent say a personal invitation from a family member would be effective in getting them to visit a church. Fifty-six percent say an invitation from a friend or neighbor would likely move them to respond.

God has called us to relationships, To walk through life with other believers.  So, this weekend why not SPARKLE and invite someone to your church.  Let God touch their hearts through your act of invitation. Remember the words of Colossians 1:6, “This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world. It is changing lives everywhere, just as it changed yours.”

Keeping our eyes focused on God, and our priorities aligned with His will for us, will give us a life of peace.  Share His peace... other's will be greatful!

Have a great weekend.
God's Peace, Donna Weaver

NOTE:  KIDZ ☮ PEACE will now be posted on Wednesdays instead of Fridays.  Same place, different day .. be sure to check out the mid-week inspiration and encouragement for kids of all ages. 

SHARED BLESSINGS: The Journey Continued

“Gratitude bestows reverence, allowing us to encounter everyday epiphanies,

those transcendent moments of awe that change forever how we

experience life and the world.” - Sarah Ban Breathnach

July 1st marked the big day ... the start of a journey of SHARED BLESSINGS. My friend and I set out on a mission to thank God in all things; the little joys, the unexpected blessings, and yes, even the hardships, disappointments, and challenges (read the entire story - blog posted 6/27/11). I am already enjoying seeking the little things that normally go unnoticed in the busy-ness of my day – and in the process, I have found unexpected moments of pure joy and peace (that is a huge blessing in itself)!

Since I will be sharing tidbits of our journey in future blog posts, I thought it would be fun if you got to know a little about my traveling companion.

Meet my friend, Peggy New ...

Donna: I know you are currently living in South Carolina. Were you born and raised there?
Peggy: I grew up in Guatemala as the child of missionaries. My Dad rigged the first flush toilet in the village and the Indians used to come by to “visit” and ask to see how it worked. I was twelve when we returned “home” to the US. Having dual-citizenship I used to “threaten” I would choose to be Guatemalan instead of American. It was a rough transition.

D: Tell us about your family and your faith?
P: I attended Wheaton College and met my husband during orientation week! On August 18th, we will be married 38 years. As I look back on those 38 years (and 20 before that) I am awed by how present God was in everything I did, everywhere I was, and everyone I knew. He surrounded me with His grace. Without it I would be dead or locked up. Rick and I have 4 children and 5 grandchildren. Our son was killed in a car accident when he was a freshman in college; it changed our lives forever. It drew us closer to God and to each other in ways that would take countless words to share.

D: You have quite a unique business. Could you tell us a little about it?
P: Currently I am a recycle artisan! I take glass wine bottles and turn them into night lights. The process has been both educational and challenging, but I love what I do. I learned to use a diamond-tip drill bit and electric drill; how to paint palm trees and add unique decorations to make each bottle a one-of-a-kind creation. Of course, inserting lights to make them sparkle, adds the finishing touch. I participate in local (and not so local) art shows and festivals, and have even learned how to sell without taking refusal personally. It’s been a learning journey.

 
D: What are some of your other favorite things to do?
P: For some years I have interviewed people and written articles for a friend’s monthly magazines. I meet some fascinating people and learn so much. I also get to babysit my 7 year old grandson who loves baseball and all other sports. He’s a challenge sometimes and we can both be cranky in the late afternoon, but have learned the importance of a snack and space.

D: Would you like to share any other “words of wisdom?”
P: Our lives are composed of so many layers; so many interconnecting and concentric circles. It amazes me to think that God designed each of us and knows everything about us; I have trouble remembering my daughter’s favorite foods or colors!

D: I have shared with my readers that you and I would be traveling a road together.  And last Friday we began our journey - to recognize all of God’s blessings and record each wonderful gift in our journals. Any thoughts you’d like to share about our adventure?
P: In this season of my life I am re-learning gratitude and looking forward to practicing it with a friend. Practice makes perfect – yes?! Each day I look for something that fills me with gratitude and write it in my journal. As we exchange our journals every two weeks, and continue the process of recording our blessings, together we will share in each other’s lives. What will be the outcome? God knows and I am willing to journey along and see the changes it will cause in my life and the lives I touch. With a grateful heart – Peggy New.

It’s Friday, Let’s Sparkle ... action required ... I have been blessed to know Peggy for many years and there is still so much to be told about this beautiful woman of faith. She is active in her church and community, teaches at a local college, and in her spare time she reads and knits ALOT! A woman of many talents ... and everything she does reflects her love for the Lord. She has been a role model, a mentor, and a dear friend to me, and I thank God for bringing our paths together.

Is there someone in your life that you could embark on a “shared journey” with? Maybe it could be an adventure like Peggy and mine, a journey of Shared Blessings. If you are doing a Bible study together, why not record scripture verses in shared journals. Or if you pray together, a prayer journal would be a wonderful shared experience. Share your faith, hold each other accountable, encourage one another, and travel life’s road together on your spiritual journey – the possibilities are endless!

2 friends ...  journals ...  2,000 blessings

Count your blessings together ...
God’s Peace, Donna Weaver

“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward

for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up the other.”

- Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

You can check out Peggy’s wine lights at - www.facebook.com/thewinelights

SHARED BLESSINGS: The Journey

2 friends ... 2 journals ... 2,000 Gifts

“I will give you thanks in the great assembly;
among the throngs I will praise you.”

- Psalm 35:18

What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise? That is a question asked by Christian singer, Laura Story in her song “Blessings.” I don’t know about you, but when health issues, job struggles, financial concerns and plan old hardships come along, it is difficult to look at them as blessings. Sometimes it’s hard to find peace, joy or hope when your have sadness in your heart.

I just finished reading a book entitled “One Thousand Gifts,” by Ann Voskamp. If you haven’t read it, it is a must.

Ann is a writer that has a remarkable way of describing what a life of gratitude looks like amidst the ordinary, everyday things we sometimes take for granted. Her reflections are filled with beautiful, descriptive words that give the reader a vivid picture of each blessing she shares. Ann’s story dares us to LIVE FULLY right where we are. Her words open our eyes and fill us with a longing to uncover the blessings in our own lives, blessings that can only be found if we are thankful in all things.

Last week I mailed a special package to a dear friend. Its contents included two items - necessary supplies for a journey that we will be taking together: 1) a copy of Ann’s book – One Thousand Gifts, and, 2) a journal. My friend and I have decided to travel life’s road together for a while… our mission is to thank God in all things; the little joys, the unexpected blessings, and yes, even the hardships, disappointments, and challenges. We will set out on our journey beginning July 1st and write words of gratitude along the way. The fun part is, we are both starting out with identical journals and will exchange them every two weeks. My friend will pen her words of thanksgiving from a seaside community in South Carolina, while I will express my gratitude surrounded by the mountains of Colorado. And hopefully at the end of this journey, we will each end up with a book containing mixed prayers of thankfulness ... SHARED BLESSINGS.

Please pray that God will open our eyes and change our hearts. That he will teach us to realize the peace, joy and hope that can be found in all things. Be sure to check back, as I will be sharing some of the tidbits from our journals in future blog posts.

Count your blessings ...
God’s Peace, Donna Weaver

“Eucharisteo always precedes the miracle.”

- Ann Voskamp

Ann Voskamp’s websites:   http://onethousandgifts.com/ and http://www.aholyexperience.com/