The Simple Life at Home

To be honest, I'm not feeling particularly grateful today. A brown haze has settled over our town, thanks to a violent sandstorm. It seems to have permeated my spirit as well, making me feel listless and discontented. And yet, I've been learning lately that my feelings aren't to be trusted.

Unlike much of the world which tells us to "follow our heart," I'm learning that we actually need to, instead, "lead" our hearts. During my study of the book of Esther (the Beth Moore one), it's become clear to me that people who follow their emotions without question often end up regretting both their decisions and their actions.

The only thing that can really be trusted is the Word of God. His promises are true. Satan is a master of lies and manipulation and his favorite target is the mind of a Christian. He loves to plant seeds of falsehood and fear. But I have determined that today I'm going to call him by name and refuse to listen to that which would steal my joy.

In reality, I do have much to be thankful for. Here's just a few of the things:

• I'm thankful for my husband. He is wise and godly, compassionate and tender. I'm so grateful for our marriage.
• I'm thankful for my children. Though at times I feel like they make me nuts, they are actually very good kids with tender hearts and are very loving.
• I'm thankful for my extended family. They are supportive and encouraging.
• I'm thankful my husband has a job in this turbulent economy.
• I'm thankful for our church which has been a source of encouragement during our transition here in Doha. They have provided wonderful tools for growth in my relationship with God during a difficult year.
• I'm thankful for friends who make me laugh, who stay in touch and who listen when I need to vent.
• I'm thankful that we are in Doha. While it's certainly not a perfect place to live, it's much better than I imagined it to be and it's allowing us some wonderful opportunities.

God is good. That's true. I love Him. That's true too. But what's even more true is He loves me. And that's all I need to know.

Be sure to visit Grace Alone for more Thankful Thursday posts.