It was a blessing to get up this morning.  I am blessed to be at work, to earn a paycheck.  I am blessed to have a loving Father who patiently leads me through life, walking with me, correcting me, moving me closer to His heart.  I am blessed with a strong, loving wife, children who I am proud to call mine.  I am exceedingly blessed to play and sing with the wonderful musicians at my church.

According to Glen Packiam, another translation of the word blessed is lucky (he wrote a whole book on the subject that is well worth reading).  So, I’m lucky when my wife disagrees with me.  I’m lucky when my kids think I’m a dope.  I’m lucky to deal with bosses, crazy monkeys, no raises, threats of unemployment, offensive smells, rat bites, and fatigue.

Now, in case you think I’m being sarcastic, I’m not.  God’s blessings are not how we would wrap them.  They don’t come in comfy, cozy, brightly colored packaging.  Sometimes they hurt.  Sometimes they cut.  Sometimes they make us angry, frustrating us to distraction.  His blessings are for our good, not our happiness.  His blessings make us better with the intent of us being better for other people (not just ourselves).  His blessings teach us, grow us, make us warriors and priests.  His blessings raise us up to a high calling.

Would I trade His blessings for ones of my choosing?  The height of folly.  Would I willingly walk away from His life for the good that this world, that I would offer?  A frightening thought, for I know my propensity to say yes to this question.

No, Lord.  I would choose You.  I would lay down all I want to gain You.

Bless me, once again, as only You can.

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