I am a blessed man! Things haven’t always gone as I would have liked them to, but as I look back-just over this past weekend alone-I can see God’s hand in my life.
Proverbs 19:21 says, “Many are the plans in the mind of men, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.” (ESV)
Life has taken some unexpected twists and turns over my 70.8 years, but as I look back, while I may not have the financial stability I wish I had (hindsight sure is 20/20), I can see God’s hand in my life. This past weekend reminded me of that fact.
As I watched by grandson play the game he loves (baseball), I thought back to my own dream of being a professional baseball player which never materialized for obvious reasons (one because I wasn’t good enough). I see my life flash before my eyes as I watch him play with a dream of playing ball in college and maybe the pros. We took a 4 hour trip (one way) to watch him play 3 ballgames…and were blessed with fantastic weather the whole time. I wonder where I would be today if God has fulfilled my childhood dream of playing baseball as a professional.
I certainly would not have celebrated 50 years of marriage (6/16) with the girl I met in college. I would not have gone to that college to pursue a life of full-time ministry as a pastor. It only follows that had I not met Jo, I would not be the father of two daughters. Before we left for Ohio, I saw one of my daughters off to visit some friends in one city, and then attend a conference to help her learn some new things and to become an even better teacher for her K kids (she already is a good teacher) in another city. I had the chance to visit the other daughter, the mother of my grandson. I have been doubly blessed with them.
This past Sunday, nine men stood before the church family and shared their hearts about a man in the Bible whom they emulate or want to be like. I’m grateful for a church that allows for variety without a bunch of hype tied to it. A simple presentation by men who stepped out of their comfort zone to speak publicly. (You can watch it on YouTube. Just type in Owen Valley Christian Fellowship-Spencer).
There are so many more I could tell you, like a simple bike ride of 17+ miles on Father’s Day which gave me the opportunity to get out and sweat and enjoy a carefree 1.5 hours. I will repeat: I am a blessed man and am grateful for the life God has given me. Once again that verse from Proverbs 19:21 plays in my mind: “Many are the plans in the mind of men, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.”
How about you? How have you been blessed and have you stopped to write it down so you can replay the blessings when needed?
Blessings come every day…I often just don’t slow down enough to recognize or enjoy them. Sometimes I even fight against the blessings, not even sure where that comes from.
Like all of us, life has it’s twists and turns that continually mold and make us into who we are.
My wife and 3 kids (all adults) would not have been in my life if “my plans” had gone the direction I had originally intended.
The following verse come from my devotion this morning… sums it up I think.
‘And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. ‘
Romans 8:28
https://my.bible.com/bible/59/ROM.8.28
I suspect all of us could say the same thing Ryan…that our lives would look a whole lot different if we had had our way, not God’s. And yes, the verse sums it up very well.
I am blessed beyond measure! As I recover from recent back surgery, I am reminded of the blessing of a dedicated and selfless spouse as well as of friends and family who love and support (literally and figuratively) me. I’m also blessed to be reminded of the need for humility and allowing yourself to be ministered to. We weren’t meant to do this life in our own efforts. And, yes, I am writing it all down to actively thank and to be reminded.
Been there done that with the back surgery Kari. I, too, had to learn to accept help, especially whenever I needed something on the floor and didn’t have my handy picker-upper with me. Hope you are recovering. I agree on we were not meant to do this alone.
I echo Ryan’s thoughts, except in the wife and kids department. But even that is a blessing (for me anyways).
One of the blessings I do love is that God loves me no matter what shortcomings. What a blessing it is!
And THAT, no matter the stage or state of life, makes it all worthwhile Ed.
I am happy to say that my blessings from God are too numerable to count. Glad you had a wonderful trip, Bill!
I join you in that Martha. Way more that I can count for sure. We did and thanks.
I feel very blessed for so many things in my life, I definitely see the Lord’s hand on my life. I wish I would have been able to give my life to Jesus at a much younger time in my life than I did. I wish I would have starting reading my bible much earlier than I did. The Lord never gave up on me, He continued to chase me until I gave my life to Him, that blessing sings into my heart everyday, makes me grateful that my eyes were finally opened.
We all wish we could have been wiser when younger Gail, but unfortunately we can’t go back. But we can do what you are doing…growing and watching God work on a daily basis. I’m glad I know you and your eyes were opened.
Wonderful recollections of God’s abundant mercy and grace. Thank you for sharing His goodness with us Pastor Bill!
Thanks Cheryl. It is my contention that blessings ought to be shared. 🙂