A New Day

It's a new day. As one of my pastor's likes to say, "a day that has never been used before." I've always liked it when he says that. It's usually in the context of a prayer, giving thanks to God for all he has given to us, including each and every day. It's easy to take for granted what we're given everyday and get mired down in day to day life. 

I'm trying to be better about keeping a good attitude and letting go of the things I think I have control over. I'm trying to be better about remembering to pray. It's actually pretty amazing how much better things go when I do pray. You'd think that would be incentive enough to pray more regularly, but it's not.

I'm trying to have a better attitude and not be so pessimistic. It's funny how prayer makes a difference with that, too. Sometimes I wonder if I enjoy being negative or having a bad attitude. I don't think the people around me enjoy it much...I know my wife doesn't. You'd think that would be incentive enough to lighten up, but it's not.

I'm trying not to get caught up with always wanting new things...stuff...gadgets. I have plenty of them. I use some of them more than others. A few weeks ago I got rid of a lot of stuff that I hadn't used in a long time. That felt good. Then I started thinking about what I might be able to replace some of that stuff with. Correct me if I'm wrong but I think this is commonly referred to as materialism. You'd think that at some point I'd be content with the things that I have, but I'm not.

My prayer today is that I would appreciate each new day for what it is, an opportunity to do something positive. To in some way make a positive difference in the day of the people around me. To be content with what God has blessed me with; a beautiful, loving wife, a great family (in-laws included), awesome friends, a good job, a free country to live in, the opportunity to travel the world, the ability to make a difference in the lives of others.

Can I ask you to pray for me? Pray that I would keep my priorities straight and have a positive influence on the people I come in contact with. Pray that I would seek God's direction each and every day and not get wrapped up in selfish desires.

Thanks. I feel better already. I'll pray for you, too.