39 Reasons to Be Thankful

I quietly entered a new year a couple of days ago. I was happy to reflect on all the things I’ve been thankful for over the years. It’s funny to me that no matter how intently situations may try to steal our gratitude or joy, it only gives me more reasons to be thankful. For me, that thankfulness always points back to one person: my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. He’s been my constant, my protector, and the giver of every good thing in my life.

So today, I’m sharing 39 Blessings that have shaped my journey, with the hope that they encourage you to reflect on your own. Honestly, there’s so much more than this list can express. Here are 39 Blessings I’m especially grateful for.

I'm thankful...

1. That I learned the value of a good work ethic from an early age.

2. That I had a uniquely positive perspective from childhood that shielded me from the impact of negative experiences.

3. That I met the Lord my Saviour who gave me that positive perspective.

4. That the Lord protected me from many situations that could have destroyed me.

5. That I was able to save and invest in completing my academic and professional goals.

6. To have enjoyed a successful and meaningful nursing career.

7. To have travelled to every country I planned to visit.

8. To have met incredible people from diverse cultures, expanding my perspective

9. To have strong values and principles shaped by my faith.

10. That God has given me a heart of compassion that has endured the storms of life.

11. That I’ve learned not only to like myself, but to love myself, even when life tried to convince me otherwise.

12. For the inquisitive mind and determined spirit God has given me.

13. That I’ve found joy and satisfaction in God apart from any human relationship.

14. For a family to love and to be loved by.

15. To have lived in the home of my dreams, in the city of my dreams.

16. For all the ways the Lord has protected and blessed me that I’m not even aware of.

17. For the creative gifts He has entrusted to me.

18. For life’s adventures.

19. That I’m built with strength to rise above criticism and adversity.

20. That God saw me fit to endure trials and testing, and walk through them with Him.

21. That His grace and favour on my life disturbs the kingdom of darkness.

22. That my most difficult battles were won in prayer.

23. That my faith is unbreakable.

24. That I’ve had the honour of impacting lives with the Gospel.

25. That I’m not afraid to try something new.

26. That I’m most enriched when serving others, it's cultivated deeper empathy and love for others.

27. That Christ delivered me from an orphan spirit.

28. That my experiences of loss have softened me and made room for deeper compassion.

29. For the kindness of strangers.

30. For my morning cup of tea that helps me start the day off right.

31. For the peace and solitude of reading quietly in the park.

32. That I can genuinely say I count everything as loss for the upward gain of Christ.

33. That my feet have accumulated more miles than a vehicle, and this body is still strong, healthy, and youthful. Praise Jesus!

34. That I can still dream of new adventures, even though tomorrow isn’t promised.

35. For my beloved first dog, Layah, intimidating in looks, but a welcome snuggle bunny.

36. For the beauty of a sunset that reminds me of God’s artistry.

37. For favour that has caused my ideas and perspectives to be valued and replicated for good.

38. That I can hope, dream, and live without needing permission or apology.

39. That I’m the daughter of a Heavenly King and a servant of the Lord Jesus.

Here’s my challenge to you:

What are you thankful for? Take a moment to write one thing for each year you’ve been blessed to live. And as you do, offer up a prayer of genuine thanksgiving to Jesus, the giver of every good and perfect gift.