Enough

I ran across this the other day as I was reading another blog. It has been weighing on my heart since then. I don't know blog etiquette and am sure there is some special way that I should reference this, but for now I will just copy it here for you to read:

Enough
We were in our final home visit in Honduras yesterday afternoon and were asking some final questions before we finished for the day. One of our team members asked the grandmother we were meeting with about the challenges she faces with her family. She smiled and looked around at her 400 sq ft. home where 10 of her family members live with her and said,
“I don’t really have any challenges. I have my family, electricity, and running water.”
~ by brianseay on March 6, 2008.

It's all a matter of perspective, isn't it?

We have certainly had our share of challenges since we made our way across the pond. None that have affected our family's well-being. None that have affected our safety or security. None that have brought any sort of physical pain or suffering. We have been displaced and have been in a constant state of uncertainty. This has been more of an inconvenience than anything else.

I'm thankful that I stumbled upon that blog because to be quite honest, there are many times that I can't see the forest for the trees. Today I will be counting my many blessings. I have my faith, my husband and children, and a warm, safe home to name just a few. I also count it as a blessing that I see those things with a true sense of renewed gratitude. I believe that God allows us to endure certain challenges so that we have a greater appreciation for our blessings.

And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:11-13