Those Little Things That Creep In and Drag Us Down

Tonight I began to allow discouragement to worm its way into my heart. I was starting to feel useless and depressed. I spent some time wallowing in self pity until God kind of smacked me in the head and made it pretty clear that I don't have the right to do this. I decided to open my Bible and start my nightly "devo" time. Throughout my prayer and Bible reading, I was reminded of how blessed I really am. I determined to be thankful for what I have instead of feeling sorry of myself because I am unemployed. God has given me so much. I have a roof over my head (and a very nice house around me), I have clothes on my back, I have plenty of food to eat, my bills are very minimal, and I really lack nothing. Of course I need to find a job. I can't sit around and mooch off my parents forever, but at least I have parents who are willing and able to help me while I am looking for a job. So, no more wallowing. No more pity parties. God is in control, and He is on my side!

I am reminded of an old song by Johnson Oatman Jr.

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.

Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

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 keep singing as the days go by.

Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings. Wealth can never buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.

Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be disheartened, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.