Rick McPherson September Newsletter, 2023
Don’t you hate it when you have to live your own advice? It’s just easier telling others what to do and how to do it, than it is living it yourself. Much easier! If you listen to my recent podcast on Spotify or watch the Facebook videos, you know I’ve been talking about, “Gratitude.” In fact, the recent edition is, “Gratitude Plus.” How’s that for emphasis? I was really drilling down on what Paul said, “Rejoice always…Pray without ceasing…In everything give thanks…For this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” I Thessalonians 5:16
It was good. I was happy. What’s next? Then, life happened to me. I tossed and turned in bed, arguing with God and demanding He answer my questions, Why? Where? When?… and a bunch of others that I won’t get into here. He reminded me of what I had been saying. Rejoice. Pray. Give thanks. This is the will of God for you. “If it’s good enough for others, it’s good enough for you…(Bucko!)”, I sensed Him say.
With a sincere apology for being ungrateful, I asked the Lord to help me and take a big spoonful of my own medicine and be grateful. Thank you, Lord! And, I mean it! Gratitude is a perspective and focus knowing that, “…all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28
Interesting that the last word of the verse is, “purpose.” I had included that word as one of the reasons we can be grateful. God gives purpose to our lives. We’re not just taking up space and doing our time, we’re fulfilling His purpose. In fact the previous scripture said, “…for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
Our ministry here is part of God’s purpose. You are a big part of His purpose because you pray for us, which is awesome. And, you support us financially, which is greatly appreciated. So, THANK YOU! We are very GRATEFUL!
Good News from Celilo Indian Village:
In last month’s Newsletter we asked for help buying backpacks for High School students. Another charity responded and purchased the items for the students. But, we were able to purchase SIX TEXAS INSTRUMENT CALCULATORS with the funds that were given to us. THANK YOU for your generous response!
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