Today is Father’s Day in our part of the world and as we are still stuck with border closures and a state government that is refusing to give a date as to when we can once again move freely around our nation, there are still a lot of people separated from loved ones today. With two of our children living on the other side of the country we fully understand how celebrations and special days can feel depleted and not as they should be.

Not having our family all together today made me think about how important it is to keep our focus positive and upon God’s promises. Otherwise we can get caught up in the mindset that says, “I’ll be happy when”….. One of the keys to being joyful regardless of our circumstances is to honour and give thanks for what God has given us right now.

Focusing on what we don’t have is a sure fire guarantee that we will go through life in a state of frustration and dissatisfaction. Even when desires are fulfilled many people still don’t feel happy because they simply move onto the next thing they are wanting, and forget to honour God for what He has blessed them with already.

Instead of looking at situations and the people in our lives and wishing things were different we can look for the positives and blessings we do have rather than the things we don’t. Rather than complaining about your job, workplace, family, church or wherever you spend your time, choose to honour and respect what you do have in these things and remember to be grateful.

The result of honour and gratefulness is that we become more patient, loving, considerate and satisfied in life. Plus when we honour what we have God knows we can be trusted with more. (Galatians 5:6)

“Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. If then, you have not been faithful with worldly wealth, who will entrust you with true riches?” (Luke 16:10-12)

Today think about what you have and all that God is doing in your midst rather than focusing on those parts of your life that aren’t quite as you’d like. If you are feeling like there is nothing good happening, look to where God has moved in other peoples lives and be encouraged to believe for Him to move in your’s. As you do you’ll start to see the positives and opportunities and your faith will go to work as you believe for Him to act out of a place of love and gratitude, rather than fear and negativity.

God in His timing and goodness will answer your requests and move in your circumstances, as you keep believing, speaking His word and allowing both faith and patience to work.

“And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful” (Colossians 3:15)

“By faith and patience we inherit the promises of God .” (Hebrews 6:12)

Prayer: Lord please help me to have eyes to see and a heart to acknowledge all that I have in my life. That I would not spend my time and energy always looking at what I don’t have. I honour and give you thanks for everything and everyone in my life today, and especially that I can know you. In Jesus name Amen.