Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare. Psalm 40:5
When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God has done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your many blessings, see what God has done.
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings—money cannot buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.
So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.
“Count your blessings” by Johnson Oatman, Jr. (1897)
On my last day visiting my parents, at their church I went to a brown bag hymn sing. It was fun. During hard times when we feel tempest-tossed taking time to worship helps us get perspective.
When we sang this song, I felt a deep sense of thankfulness. After re-reading the lyrics I look time to count my blessings for five minutes. Try it. See what happens.
My hope is that discouragmeent is replaced with comfort, that your burdens are exchanged for blessings, and that your heart is filled with gratitude to position to live generously.