contentment

This is a personal post, so here we go.

I have REALLY been struggling with contentment lately.
I look around and see what other's have and how they probably have more money than we do.
And I get jealous.

I look at all the new things in stores and see pictures of other people's homes.
And I get jealous.

I see that other people are healthy and don't have to worry about the things that I do.
And I get jealous.

See a theme? I do too.

Guess what Mr. Free and I taught about in Children's Church on Sunday?

Jealousy.

Guess what we taught the kids to do when they get jealous?

To begin to thank God for what they do have.

Guess I need to listen to my own lesson.

Here are some things I am thankful for:
* Mr. Free- He is my rock, my best friend and my partner in crime. : )
* Our families- We are blessed beyond belief with loving, godly, supporting families.
* Our friends- We truly have the BEST friends that anyone can ever have. I truly consider them to be family. And they WILL be our children's 'aunts' and 'uncles'.
* Our pets- They really bring a smile to my face and love me when no one else can. Gotta love the ignorance of animals. : )
* Our church- They are like family to us and their support is amazing.
* My job- So many people are struggling to find employment, and I have a job that I love.
* Our home- It may not be the biggest, shiniest or cleanest, but I love it. It's our home.
* My insulin pump- We have a love/hate relationship, but truly, I love that it keeps me alive and let's my eat what I want, when I want.
* Our new heat pump/ central air- When you hadn't had central air in years, you realize what a blessing it is!
* Our dishwasher- See above
* My new yellow shoes- because they make me happy
* Fall- because it's my favorite time of the year. You already knew that....

Mr. Free and I are blessed beyond measure. We constantly cannot believe God's grace being bestowed on us. The biggest thing I am thankful for? My God and Savior Jesus Christ who despite all of my short-comings, loved me enough to sacrifice himself for me. That God has a plan for me, for ME! He has a reason for EVERYTHING I encounter.

God bless you if you read all of that. Go hug someone you love and realize how blessed YOU truly are too.