Women’s Devotion: Being Thankful

Being Thankful

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, His love endures forever”
Psalm 118:1

I admit I’m a chronic list maker. Always have been. The lists don’t need to be written down on paper—sometimes they are simply in my head. These lists tend to keep me organized and give me a sense of accomplishment.

Over the past 15 months, many lists were made, and many tasks completed. But as the months went by, I began to realize that I should be forming another type of list.

Our family, as well as many of our friends and neighbors, have so much to be thankful and grateful for. Now my gratitude list is more important for me to write each day. Family, friends and faith all help us to get through the regular day-to-day as well as the tough times. Our faith can lead us to help others and encourage them as well. Isn’t that what God intends for us to do? Even simple acts of kindness help others and lift our spirits as well.

Each day is a promise from God. Let’s make the best of our day—not by what “gets done” and checked off—but by using each of our God-given talents to help others.

Jack Canfield, author of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, stated it quite well: “Gratitude is the single most important ingredient to living a successful and fulfilled life.”

May we all unlock that wonderful life by always giving thanks and gratitude.

Dear Lord, thank you for the gifts and abundant blessings you provide for us each day. Help us to use these gifts to enrich the lives of others. Thank you for your never-ending love that always surrounds us. May we learn to be a messenger of Your love and share that love with others. Amen.

This month’s devotion was written by Mary Plageman, a member of Sheridan’s Women’s Ministry Team. Mary and her husband, Ron, have been members of Sheridan since 1974. They have been married 49 years (come this August) and have two sons, Nate and Brendan. They also have four wonderful grandchildren, Cora (6yrs), Owen (5yrs), Damon (3yrs) and Vera (2 years).

She retired from teaching first grade in 2011 and now loves to travel, read great books, spend time with the grandkids, enjoy time with family and friends, and wonder how she got everything done before! Mary and Ron love Sheridan and all the wonderful people who are their special extended family!