As we move closer and closer to the new year each day this week, let us take a moment to reflect upon this last year and thank God for everything we have faced and endured, for everything He’s blessed us with and for each high and low we’ve experienced.

Some of us have experienced great loss this year. Our tables on Christmas Day were not as full as last year. Loved ones have gone on to be with the Lord and we miss them greatly. We thank God for the hope that we have in Jesus and that our loved ones are in His presence and we’ll see them again. God is so good and faithful…even when we don’t understand the “why.”

Some of us have gone through difficult situations this year….health diagnoses, job loss, relationship/friendship issues, divorce, church drama, family strain…But God is good and faithful, though every situation. Our trust in Him has guided us, given us wisdom and discernment for every situation we’ve encountered.

We have experienced wonderful moments too…births, new jobs, new homes, business growth, marriages and more. So many blessings! God is so good and faithful, all the time!

So as we reflect back over this year, let’s “count our blessings,” as the old hymn says. “Name them one by one.” Literally, write them down as a record of the goodness and faithfulness of God in your life for the last 12 months.

“Count Your Blessings” is a wonderful song to sing any day of the year as a reminder of the many blessings of God, even during hardships. You will feel joy and contentment when singing this song!

“Count Your Blessings”

“When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed, When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost, Count your many blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your blessings, see what God hath done; Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.

Are you ever burdened with a load of care? Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear? Count your many blessings, ev’ry doubt will fly, And you will be singing as the days go by.

When you look at others with their lands and gold, Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold; Count your many blessings, money cannot buy your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.

So, amid the conflict, whether great or small, Do not be discouraged, God is over all; Count your many blessings, angels will attend, Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.”