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A little arithmetic for you

The hardest arithmetic to master is that which enables us to count our blessings. (Eric Hoffer)

Those who gather crops on time are wise, but those who sleep through the harvest are a disgrace. Good people will have rich blessings, but the wicked will be overwhelmed by violence. Good people will be remembered as a blessing, but evil people will soon be forgotten. (Proverbs 10:5-7)

Have you ever stopped long enough to think about your blessings? When you engage in this process, you will likely realize many of those 'blessings' came through very hard work. It wasn't that you 'achieved' those blessings on your own, though. God gave you both the ability and know-how to achieve them. Blessings come in the form of accomplishments, people, and even physical things we can see and touch. The greatest of blessings may just be the peace we experience each day as we settle into the arms of Jesus and enjoy just a little time in his presence.

It may feel like life overwhelms us from time to time - leaving us thinking all of God's blessings have left our lives. This is the furthest thing from truth - for many of God's greatest blessings seem to come through the hardest of times. Why might that be? If we are truthful with each other on this one, we might just have to admit the 'hard times' actually bring us to our knees. They cause us to reach out to God in new ways, with greater tenacity, and in increasing measure. It isn't that God wants us to endure hard times - it could be that he allows them on occasion because he knows they will drive us deeper into his arms.

What drives you into the arms of Jesus? Is it the 'not knowing' of uncertain times? Could it be the 'not feeling loved' moments when you realize you are alone and without companionship? Might it be the 'disgusted times' when you knew you should have made another choice, but followed your feelings instead of the prompts of the Spirit of God within? Regardless of 'what' drives you into the arms of Jesus, it can be the place of our greatest blessings. We need those moments, but sometimes we don't take the seek them on our own. If we are challenged into his arms, it is okay. If we come willingly and with great delight, it is better! Just sayin!
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