God’s Promises: Finding Joy and Gratitude in Life’s Simple Gifts

As I was touched by the vision of this unique point of view (photographed above) around the time of dawn, these questions hit me: “Is this the life beyond my wildest dreams?” “Are God’s Promises True?”

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen" Ephesians 3:20–21 NIV

There was a time when I would’ve imagined watching the sunrise (or sunset) from my infinity pool surrounded by tropical landscaping at my hilltop estate located in a top-rated neighborhood with our dream cars/motorcycles parked in a 4-car garage as being what I would describe as “a life beyond my wildest dreams.”

But GOD has revealed more.

And it looks like simplicity, minimalism, gratitude for the infinity cat drinking box placed mindfully in view of our Zanzibar Gem and Fruit Of The Spirit banner… all located in a much lower-rated, but modestly affordable and beautifully colorful, diverse neighborhood, filled with its own emergency vehicle sirens song charms.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again… when we’re grateful for what we have, what we have is enough.

The gift of no longer striving to obtain or accomplish more and more and more is the equivalent of a deep cleansing breath that calms any fears or insecurities, replacing them all with the peace, confidence, joy, and love that can only be from the BEST gift-giver of all time!!!

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17 NIV

Our mini black panther, Dez, pictured here wandering through our secret garden, reminds me that it truly is the little things in life that bring us the most pleasure and everlasting joy.

"The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Psalm 23 NIV

As it turns out, it’s not so much about the changes in my circumstances or financial status as much as it is about the changes in my attitude and POV.

May your own Point Of View be shaped by an attitude of gratitude, focusing on what is good and working well today. Are you breathing? Are you able to take a walk? These are causes for celebration!

There is beauty in the simplicity of a dandelion design (also photographed in our secret garden this morning).

First, look up child at our majestic Creator. Then look at the wonderful works of His creation all around us and say…

Thank YOU!

They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty — and I will meditate on your wonderful works. Psalm 145:5 NIV

Until next time, let us meditate and marvel at God’s wonderful works.

(This is where I usually insert a coffee-related link with the hope of some generous soul sending me one… but this time I shall be satisfied and content with the [Deuteronomy 8] manna God has already provided for today.)

It is enough.

(2 Corinthians 12:9) His grace is sufficient.

© Nora Gwen