enter His gates with thanksgiving...

This is the month to be thankful. Gratitude is something that can be expressed easily, and often. I want to take some time to be grateful this morning. First of all I am grateful for my life and my salvation. God has changed me so much. I was once a rebellious, broken, lost girl. I had no regard for others, and I only sought to satisfy my own desires. My gratitude is for the way He revealed Himself to me, showing me that real happiness is found in Him. Caring for others and serving in His kingdom brings me more happiness than I could have ever hoped for. Second only to the Lord, I am grateful for my family. I have married a man who is fiercely loyal to his children and I. He is my strength. When I feel like I can't go on, He carries me. He is the priest of our home, and holds us all accountable for choices we make. He is a very valuable presence in my life. My children are so precious, and they are also very strong. I am amazed at the wisdom that comes from them. In my wildest dreams, I could never ask for a more unified family. Another thing I am very thankful for is my church, and the friends I have found there. When times are hard, someone is there to relieve the stress. I have found in my church a place I can serve and make a difference. As a preschool teacher, the children bless my heart so much. On Sunday mornings, I leave the church different from when I walked in thanks to those precious children. I am thankful for so many other things...my country, the military, my parents and siblings, the list could go on and on. This month I encourage you to show your gratitude to the people in your life. Sometimes it just feels good to know that people don't take you for granted. I commit to be thankful always, not just in the holiday season.