By Lois Hewitt

We are officially in my favorite season.  The Gratitude Season.  I’m thankful all year but even more so now…

Summer’s warmth brings an ease to life.  Colder weather means frozen pipes, frosted windshields, icy roads and snow. It is a time to pray for protection and to be thankful for it.

Summer brings fresh fruits and vegetables. Winter’s harvest is different. I’m thankful for the root vegetables and winter harvests. Thankful always for the abundant bounty we know in this country.

Summer’s days are long and warm. Winter days are shorter and colder.  I’m thankful for the early darkness for it is best suited for a cup of hot tea and a good book, and a Bible Study.

Summer’s clothing is loose and free. I am thankful for my warm leggings, sweater, scarf and coat.  I love dressing for the cold.

Summer is easier in so many ways and greatful I am for the light and warmth provided.  I tend to not need as much in summer.

Fall and winter remind me that my bounty and protection come from God above.  That my light in the darkness, literal and figurative, comes from God above.  That my comforts come from God above.

Grateful, I try to be always, the gifts so freely given.  But my needs grow greater as the ease of summer fades for the season.  More care I need as difficulties arise. 

A reminder that I depend 1000% on the Creator of all things. I see the bounty even in times of want.  I thank Him in times of fear.  I praise Him when my heart is breaking. 

Complaints were my mainstay for decades past. Misery my closest friend.  Those days, gratefully, gone and replaced with gratitude for all things here and now as well as things waiting.

Today I sit in wonder of the gifts.  The only real gift we are to be given is freedom from eternal death through the blood of Jesus.  No other gifts are required.

But in His goodness, He continues to care for us even through our sin and disobedience. I am thankful for all He gives and for all He holds back.  My need draws me closer to Him.  In His arms, I find all I need.

Praise God today. Sometimes all we see is what we don’t have.  When we need to focus on all we do have.  He is sufficient my friend. Hold strong to His truths. He will see us through!