DAY BY DAY...

Psalm 68:19 & Lamentations 3:21-24
   I saw a post on one of the social media sights that read something like, "What if you woke up this morning with only those things for which you thanked God for yesterday?"  This serves as a solemn reminder that we are so blessed that often take for granted the daily benefits God bestows upon us.
    Do our expectations exceed our gratitude? Are we more like the Israelites in the wilderness who were still complaining after 40 years of experiencing God's blessings on a daily basis (Deuteronomy 29)?
     We so easily complain about that which we don not have while failing to appreciate that which we do have. God is faithful to give us daily those things necessary for life. Not only do we have life and breath, but our daily bread as well. This being so, why do we not fill our prayers with praise rather than being worried about the future? When Matthew 6:25-34 reminds us that we are to "take no thought" about these things necessary for life, it does not mean that we should accept no personal responsibility and just sit back and wait for God to fill our pantries with things to eat. It means that we are not to be anxious (worried) about those things which God has promised to provide for us. His provision of these things comes in many forms, one of which gainful employment by which we make money with which to buy food, clothing and shelter.
     Whereas God feeds the "birds of the air", He does not throw worms into their nests. He does provide for their needs and He also provides for us as well. When we see His hand in daily provision, how can we doubt that He will be there for us tomorrow as well?
     It is not wrong for us to make plans for the future, but we must live in the light of the present day, acknowledging HIs provision and care for us. We cannot control all the circumstances, but we can control our attitudes. We cannot worry and worship at the same time. We must live day by day...

       Swedish hymn writer, Carolina Sandell Berg was accompanying her father on a ship when a sudden lurch caused him to fall overboard. Attempts to rescue him proved unsuccessful and he drowned. This incident triggered her to write the song, "Day By Day", which has proven to be a source of great comfort to many. If you are struggling with worry, perhaps you will find it of help as well.