Faith On Every Corner - November 2020

Melissa Henderson is a writer of inspirational messages. Her first book for children, “Licky the Lizard”, was released in 2018. She also has a story in the compilations “Heaven Sightings” and “Remembering Christmas.” Her passions are helping in community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister. She and her husband, Alan, moved from Virginia to South Carolina to be near her son, daughter-in-law and first grandchild. The family motto is “It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons” Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at http://www.melissaghenderson.com

Before My Feet Hit the Floor ... I’m Thanking God By Melissa Henderson

When morning comes and daylight peeks through the window blinds, my body begins to wake. Stretching my arms and legs helps any arthritis pain subside. I begin a special way to start each day.

Before my feet hit the floor... I thank God. My eyes may or may not be open yet, but my praises begin. No matter what happened yesterday, a new day has dawned, and the possibilities are endless. I don’t know if the day will bring happiness or sadness, joy, or worry. I am comforted knowing God loves me and His mercies are new every day.

Joy is found in the simple things of life like giggles, butterflies, a found coupon for free pizza, listening to praise music and so much more. I thank God for His love, my family and friends, His forgiveness, and His glory, and more. Sometimes I list certain things, other times the prayers of thanksgiving are more general. God is listening. He knows my heart. Many times, during the day, I speak out loud. No worries if someone hears me. Maybe they will begin praising God, too. After dressing and preparing for the day, I open the front door of the house and say, “Thank You, God, for this glorious day.” Whether the sun is shining, or the rain is pouring, I give thanks. Walking to the back door, I repeat the same thing. “Thank You, God, for this glorious day.” Bad times will come. A scary medical diagnosis, an encounter with a grouchy checkout employee, an unexpected large bill saying “amount due now” or other bad things may happen. I may become worried or sad, yet during those times, I will give thanks that God is with me and He will bring comfort.

Good times will come. A phone call from a dear old friend who lives far away brings laughter and precious memories. A morning shared with grandson Rowan as we play dinosaurs and make shadows in the hallways with flashlights makes me laugh so much that my sides hurt. A good hurt. During those times, I will give thanks that God has given me friends and family to love.

I try to look for happiness in everyday moments. Too often, we rush around trying to get things done and cross off that pesky “to do” list.

Another way to give thanks is to read the Bible and learn everything I can about His Word. “Why are you always so happy?” That’s a question I’ve heard often in my life. My answer is found in Him. I explain that by giving thanks to God everyday, I am reminded of the love He has for all of us.

My praises and thanksgiving continue throughout the day and night. From early morning dew on the grass to the laughter of children waiting at the bus stop, I give thanks. For the robins and cardinals singing in the pine trees, I give thanks. For grandson Rowan (3 years old) grabbing my hand and saying, “Come on Mimi, let’s play!”, I give thanks.

What if we pause, take a few deep breaths, and give thanks to God?

Can you take time to give Him thanks for all His blessings and love?

Happy Thanksgiving! Melissa Henderson