If People came complete with theme songs ?Count your blessings? (By J.Oatman & E.O.Excell) would be mine. When I listen to the words of this hymn I can't help but to break them down into little lessons of encouragement for myself. When you are having a bad day why don't you give it a try. Take up pen and paper and write out the good things in your life. It could be something as simple as 'received a smile from a stranger? or it could be as large as the love of a daughter, son, parent etc.
?When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed, when you are discouraged thinking all is lost, count your many blessings, name them one by one and it will surprise you what the Lord hath done?
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I'm Sure your list is growing!
?Are you ever burdened with a load of care? Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear? Count your many blessings every doubt will fly and you will be singing as the days go by?
Music. Now that is another blessing! Don't get me wrong. I don't have a voice to write home about, never-the-less there are some days (when I feel the weight of the world on my shoulders) that I literally force myself to sing this hymn and you know it does help. Of course if I'm in a public place I quietly hum it to myself. I'm sure people think I am a little strange but that's O.K. The Lord knows why I'm doing it and that is all that is really important anyway. How big is your list getting now?
?When you look at others with their land and gold, Think that Christ has promised you his wealth untold. Count your many blessings money can not buy, Your reward in Heaven nor your home on high?
I must admit there are times I fell envious of those who have more than I do. I sometimes think I would like to try being rich for a change, but if I was wealthy I wouldn't have the joy of my jobs, or knowing my employers. I also would not have the sense of accomplishment I have when I finish my work for the day.
'so amid the conflict weather great or small, do not be discouraged GOD IS OVER ALL?!!!
I'm sure your list is quite long by now, but please leave room on your paper, as day by day you will surely find something to add to it.
- Laurie McGuire, member of Westside Bible Church, Victoria, BC
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