October 30, 2020 Brethren Letter

Dear Brethren,

Probably all of us have heard the phrase, “Count your blessings!” But, how many people actually do? Have you ever counted yours? As humans, it is far easier to complain about things that have happened through the day than take the time to count the many blessings received. Have you ever imagined others receiving more blessings than you? Be reassured, that is not the case. “And He said to them, ‘Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses’”(Luke 12:15).

God is no respecter of persons! “Then Peter opened his mouth and said: “In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality” (Acts 10:34). All good gifts and blessings come from God. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning” (James 1:17). If you really begin thinking about your many blessings, you’ll probably find that the number of blessings are much higher than you realize.

Many years ago, a minister suggested taking the time to write out a list of every blessing a person has. I remember writing my own list. In a very short time my list had become quite lengthy. It included everything from being thankful for the beauty of God’s creation to the blessing of being called (John 6:44). It included thankfulness for Christ’s sacrifice for my sins, the blessing of having a wonderful family, and the blessing of having brethren of like mind to fellowship with. That’s only the beginning of what I wrote that day. I probably wrote over one hundred items on that list. You’ll no doubt find that your own list is extensive too!

Here are other scriptures to think about as you consider your own blessings.

And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma (Ephesians 5:2)

Yes, the Almighty will be your gold And your precious silver; For then you will have your delight in the Almighty, And lift up your face to God (Job 22:25-26)

Listen, my beloved brethren: Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him? (James 2:5) and if children, then heirs–heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together (Romans 8:17)

Brethren, the blessings which God pours out upon us are indeed abundant. Take the time to write them down, meditate on them, and be thankful to God always.

Sincerely, Your Brother in Christ,

Gary Liebold