To say that the book is captivating is an understatement. I had already chosen the word 'Joy' for my word for 2012 before I really got into the book, and as I began to read I realized how God had orchestrated that I would be reading this book this year. Ann has challenged me to choose to be thankful, to practice it. As she says, "Change takes real intentionality--Could I list/name one thousand blessings - one thousand gifts?"
In a new way God is reminding me of an old lesson in being content, to be thankful, to cultivate an attitude of gratitude, to be more thankful for what I have, what I can do than what I don't have or can't do.
Philippians 4:11, 12 says I have learned(and I have to say for myself, I am relearning Lord) how to be content with whatever I have.
Ann goes on to say, The secret to living joy in every situation is to learn how to be thankful, whether empty or full....Joy is the realest reality, the fullest life, and joy is always given, never grasped. God gives gifts and I give thanks and I unwrap the gift given: JOY!
And so this year, in 2012, I am choosing to write down 1000 gifts, 1000 things that I am thankful for. One thousand times to say thank you Lord for how you bless me. And one by one they change how I see my day.
#29 for 2012 is: the book 'One Thousand Gifts' which has made/helped me choose to daily give thanks.
Care to join me?
6 comments:
i just started reading the book myself, same thing---so many people recommended it and mentioned it over the past year...i'm in on writing down 1000 gifts! so much to be thankful for!
I have not started a list, but I'm taking my time reading and re-reading ... there is so much to mull over. It's not a quick read, for sure, as giving thanks in all circumstances is not easy, but something that we can learn to do and find joy in.
When I first started blogging I happened upon Ann's blog and read it every day. Always great devotional thoughts and wonderful photos! Other bloggers always linked up with her blog and it was always great to visit the others. It didn't surprise me that she would have a very successful book from that blog! I haven't stopped counting my blessings, but have stopped numbering them as they are in the umpteen thousands!! Praising and thanking the Lord at all times!!
I too am reading this book and have decided to write my husband a word of thanks or encouragement every day this year.
Monika T
What a great idea Monika! Thanks for leaving a comment! :-)
I just ordered the book on Amazon.com. To get free shipping I purchased some hummingbird earrings. Hopefully, I will be thankful for the book AND the earrings! :) hh
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