Why details matter

I gave a friend a note written on the back of one of my photographs. She looked at the picture and exclaimed, "Wow! What a pretty flower! What kind is it?"

I responded that I didn't know. It was a picture of flowering weed at the edge of my property. 

I enjoy using my camera to capture the details God has put into creation. It isn't unusual for me to get caught up in amazement over the intricacies found in nature.

While inspecting the photo, my friend shook her head and murmured, "I wish I had weeds that looked like that."

I simply smiled. But in my head I thought, They are everywhere. You just have to look closely. 

I often think that's how blessings are... They are everywhere. They surround us. But to notice them, sometimes we have to stop and look very closely. When we open our eyes and look past the distractions and frustrations in life, we notice the little blossoms of blessings. 

And let me tell you, when you start to notice one blessing, you will begin to notice dozens of them. And when the details of each blessing emerge, joy and peace will overflow.

But the act of recognizing our blessings begins with a choice. Choosing to be grateful. In all circumstances.

"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Yeah, I know. Easier said than done. But it can be done - with God's help.

Two and a half years ago, after my oldest son's diagnosis, I made a decision to praise God through my tears of grief. I chose to trust God's sovereignty. I chose to be thankful for everything God has done for me.

In return, God lifted my head out of my sorrow and revealed His promises and blessings. And my heart was filled with joy and peace and hope.

With practice, being grateful in all circumstance does become a little easier, but it still requires constant leaning on God for help. Also, I surround myself with people who share this belief and lovingly remind me when necessary. :)

Next time life's difficulties threaten to pull you down, please try this: pause to write down all your blessings. A list of everything you are thankful for - big and small. Describe each one. Linger over the list. Spend time in prayer, praising and thanking God for everything on the list.

It is in the details where your greatest thanksgiving will bloom.

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