Gratitude

Hi everyone! I’m Sherry Douglas with Heart-Song. When I was 13 my mom and I were walking around the square in downtown Troy. Our discussion went to the passing of time. She stated that years passed more quickly the older she got. I responded that there were always the same number of days in a year, so that wasn’t possible. Well…I wish I could tell mom she was absolutely correct because I have now experienced exactly what she was talking about. Of course, there are the same number of days in a year, except with leap years, but it does seem that each year passes more quickly than the year before. Have you experienced that, yet?

It’s a reminder that our time here is limited. It’s a reminder that each day is a gift and to wake up with gratitude in our hearts. That’s not always easy, of course. Some of us have had extremely difficult days in 2024 or in past years. I’m so sorry if that has been your experience. Maybe you’ve found the same thing I have…when our life journey is heart-wrenching, turning to Scripture can be lifesaving. Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” This verse doesn’t say, “in good times, with thanksgiving.” It says “in every situation, with thanksgiving.” I understand it may feel impossible to do this. I have found, though, that if I ask Him to help me to have gratitude in my heart, he does. It may take a while for my heart to respond, but He is always faithful. May 2025 be the year for each of us to have grateful hearts!

Happy New Year! Live the way you want to be remembered!