I Say Again, the Lord Provides

Scripture:
Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord,
    who walks in His ways.
For you shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands;
    you will be happy, and it shall be well with you.
Your wife shall be as a fruitful vine
    in your house,
your children like olive shoots
    around your table.
Behold, this man shall be blessed
    who fears the Lord.
Psalms 128:1-4

Observation: Of all God's promises, this one is repeated - that he who believes in the Lord will be blessed is the one. This blessing is not about abundant riches, rather it is simply "contentment" ... having enough to eat, enjoying a happy family, and being productive in your professional and personal life. That is all. That is blessing.

Application: After a long week I am reminded of this fact: I am blessed! My work, even when frustrating, provides more than I deserve for myself and my family. We enjoy our family life together, and have enough to eat, to drink, to share, to give away. We can provide for our children's lives and their future. This is simply blessing from God. May I never, ever lose sight of that, even for one moment.

Prayer: Dearest Lord, my father and my provider, I know that you have given to me in ways I do not understand, and in measures I do not deserve. My life is full and runs over. Even on the hectic and frustrating days, may I always have you at the center of my life, the center of my heart, and the center of my mind. Amen.