Thank You for This Day

"Thank you for this day." That's how I begin my morning prayer--every day. Some days, I'm in my truck; some days I'm at my desk or at the kitchen table, but I always begin the same way. I need to remind myself each and every day that I am totally depending on God for everything...EVERYTHING in my life.

God graciously allowed me to get a night's rest and then wake up to begin another day. A new day...unspoiled by work's frustrations, cutting words, angry thoughts, and failed expectations. A new day to revel in the crispness of morning air; a new day to wake up EARLY and enjoy the quiet; a new day to stop and ponder: "What does THIS day hold?"

Another day to live my life, trusting in God to keep me safe, to help me speak kindly to my family and co-workers, to be the very best husband, dad, and employee I can be. Another day filled with opportunities to tell others about His goodness. Another day to be encouraged by words like:

...but he who trusts in the Lord, lovingkindness shall surround him. Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you righteous ones; And shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart. (Psalm 32:10-11)

Another day to know that even when I fall, He is there to pick me up, to strengthen and encourage me. Another day to bask in His forgiveness, to know that He knows my heart...and still loves me. And at the end of the day, to be able to go home to my family, seeing them all safe.

Thank You for my wife, our sons, our jobs, our friends, our church, the food on our table, our warm beds...and rest.

Thank You for this day.