Guest Post by Author Nancy Lewis-Shelton
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:3-6 (NIV)
Imagine yourself in the dungeon with Paul as he sits chained in a jail cell – tired, weak, awaiting trial. Watch as he chooses to rise above his circumstances to write a joyful letter to the Philippians. He expresses a deep longing for their fellowship as he recalls the blessings of pleasant memories. Excited about the spread of the gospel, he thanks his readers and assures them that God will help them handle their temptations and forgive them when they stray. His writings give assurance that they will complete God’s work. Paul’s writing is confident and positive. He instructs his readers to think about whatever is “true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable” (and to) “put it into practice.” (Philippians 4:8-9 NIV)
My mother had many hard times in her life: a brain tumor, job losses, poverty, my father’s death, severe arthritis, dementia, and so on. Even when life was difficult, she continued to go to church when she could, to read her Bible daily, and to pray no matter what the current trauma. Like Paul, she kept her faith, remaining positive and joyful. After injuries from a serious fall, she lived in a nursing home. Before I left each visit with her, I placed a music CD in a player. One of the discs contained one of her favorite hymns, Count Your Blessings. The chorus tells us to count our blessings and see what God has done. While the song played, I stood outside the door to listen to her hum and sing with the music.
Count Your Blessings was written by Johnson Oatman, Jr. in 1897. Rev. Oatman felt his calling in life was to preach through his music. He wrote around 200 hymns per year, reaching 5,000 before his death in 1936. What a massive accomplishment! Today, he still preaches through his works as worshipers sing his songs.
I’ve had ups and downs in my life, and, at times, it has taken much effort to maintain a positive, thankful attitude. Reading the Bible, prayer, and memories of my mother help me to do that. “Nancy, look on the bright side. Pray to God. He will help you find the good and deal with the worst.” As I reflect on her words, the hymn enters my head. Together they brighten my day. If Paul and Mom can remain positive when life becomes tough, so can I.
Thought: When you’re feeling low, sing a thankful song, then list all the blessings God has given you.
Nancy Lewis-Shelton retired from public education after years as a classroom teacher and school counselor. Published work includes devotionals and fiction/non-fiction short stories for adults and children. Recent publications include two fiction novellas about Cookie, a pet sitter. Volunteer activities include the church senior choir, elementary school Reading Buddy (Council of Churches), and a local oral storytelling group. When she’s not writing or volunteering, you might find her digging in the garden, playing bridge, reading, enjoying events with her daughter’s family, or participating in activities with her pet therapy dog, Robin.