The Blessed File Cabinet

The most powerful folder in my file cabinet is not the one that contains information about my bank account or tax records. Nor is it the folder containing a copy of my son’s birth certificate. It’s not even the folder containing my will.

No, the most powerful folder in my file cabinet contains a loose collection of letters, notes, and cards full of encouragement that friends have sent me over the years.

Why is it the most powerful folder in my file cabinet?

When I am facing adversity and disappointment, looking at my bank account statements doesn’t change my disposition. Neither does staring at my son’s birth certificate or my will. Certainly, my tax records don’t cheer me up!

But I am always amazed how reflecting on the encouragement of my friends and family impacts my heart. Slowing down and remembering blessings from the past can shape our disposition today.

Of course, that folder in my file cabinet is just a small collection of blessings God has placed in my life.

In Psalm 75:1, Asaph writes, “We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks, for your name is near. We recount your wondrous deeds.”

In Psalm 103:2, David exclaims, “Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits…”

It seems that from time to time, these psalmists opened their file cabinets and reviewed the records of God’s blessings in their lives.

Recently, as I was meditating on Psalm 75, I decided to make a mental folder of God’s blessings in my life. My goal was to state them as specifically as possible so that I would savor every ounce of the blessings. Here’s a sample of what I came up with:

1)   God blessed me with parents who have never lied to me or betrayed my trust. I have never had to wonder if I could trust them or if they had my best interest at hand. What a strong reflection of Christ for me to grow up under!

2)   God blessed me with a church family who cared for and provided for my family in our greatest time of need. They mowed the yard, raked leaves, cooked meals, cleaned house, and even offered to decorate for Christmas.

3)   God blessed me with three strong friends who have an “open door” policy with me –anytime, day or night. I can tell them anything and they are willing to always speak truth into my life –even difficult, painful truth. They have listened to my frustration and despair, corrected me in my sin, and encouraged me in my walk with Christ.

Of course, my list is much longer and more detailed than this. In fact, I could go on and on about the way God has blessed me –as I’m sure you can too.

So why don’t you try it? Set aside five minutes and just see what happens when you start reflecting on God’s “wondrous deeds” and “benefits” He has showered upon you.

I am confident that when you do, your heart will be overflowing with a passion to praise His name! That’s why David and Asaph’s comments about remembering God’s blessings are accompanied by phrases such as “We give thanks to you, O God,” and “Bless the Lord, O my soul.”

Like the song says, “Count your blessings –name them one by one.” Don’t file them away forever!