As we approach that one special day of the year we’ve intentionally set aside to reflect on our blessings, I am reminding myself to take some time to count all of mine. This is not always an easy thing to do.

It’s so easy to look around at other people and envy the things that they have: I hear about a friend going on vacation. I talk to another friend about her family’s new vehicle. I see that a co-worker has just purchased a new state-of- the-art cell phone.

 It is not easy to separate oneself from the desire for material possessions, especially in our culture. It’s not easy, but it’s important. It helps me when I remember God’s promise to provide what I need. It helps when I remember that those around me with the new cars and cell phones may be dealing with hardships I know nothing about. It helps when I focus on the blessings God has given me—especially his blessings of peace, hope, and forgiveness in Jesus.

 This Thanksgiving, focus on the blessings God has given you!  If you think about it, they are many, and they are probably all you really need.