Blessed

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. -Ephesians 1:3

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When a particular trouble intrudes into our life, it has a way of taking over. It dominates our thoughts, controls our emotions, saps our will, and drains our energy. Eventually, it crowds and bullies every good thing out of our day. As God's children, we can't let that happen. Today's Scripture tells us God has blessed us in the heavenly realms. He's given us peace of heart and mind - something the world craves but can't find. He's given us faith to pass through deep waters. He's given us the grace to give and to let go. He's given us the sweet knowledge that we have an eternal home in heaven, waiting for us just around the bend. He's given us His own Spirit as Counselor and Comforter. He's washed away our sins and forgotten our evil deeds. We have more going for us than His own angels, who have never tasted such grace.

Father, remind me of all the gifts You have given me. Help me to wash away the dark thoughts with fresh gratittude and heartfelt praise.

-From A Spectacle of Glory by Joni Eareckson Tada; p. 76

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