Wow.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33

Signing up for texts from Newspring could quite possibly be the best decision I've ever made.  I'm not sure if its on purpose or not, but I always receive the texts around the time that I wake up in the morning, and they serve as a tiny reminder about what I heard/ learned the in the last sermon.

This week Perry preached on why we shouldn't worry about the economy, and money (watch it here, seriously... everyone can relate to this). I feel like the closer and closer I get to growing up, the more and more finances can really stress me out.  But after really reflecting on Perry's message I wondered, when has God ever really let me go without?  Perry recommended that we take just 10 minutes to sit and think, or jot down, everything that the Lord has given us.

Mine hardly fit on one page.  There is so much that Lord has blessed me with, and it's foolish to think that I need money or any materialistic thing to bring me joy.  As I sat and thought about what I wanted to put I began to realize that the Lord works in mysterious ways... I know, that sounds cliché, but it is so true.  Doesn't it always seem like eventually everything works out? My mom always told me that things have a way of working out, and I'm just now starting to realize that when you're at your breaking point, perhaps its God who gives you a little push to make it through.  The little push could be: kind words from a friend, financial help or some financial miracle, perfect "timing", there are so many instances in my life where circumstances just happened to work out.  The Lords capabilities are endless, so it seems ignorant not go to him for help, for guidance, but also for praise and thankfulness.  

Some things that I'm feeling utterly thankful for lately:

1. My friends, family, and loved ones.  Through all of this I have support, happiness, laughter (a lot, actually, a ton of laughter), good memories, and strong bonds. 
2. I want to put an emphasis on family, I've never gone a day without a roof over my head, without food to eat, without a more than adequate education.  I've never gone a day without hope, without love, I am more than blessed for the family God has given me. 
3. My life.  Seems rather broad, but I mean it, my very existence.  
4. My health.  I'm so thankful that God created for me a healthy, able body, and I try not to continuously take for granted how much of a blessing that is.
5. Forgiveness and rebirth.  It is because the Lord gave his only son, to wash away our sins and bring us back to life.  For this I am so thankful, for this I am obedient.  This brings me joy.