We just finished a discussion session on the book The Art of Listening Prayer.  Today, Chad decided to do something a little different with us, so we took the time to write out "Gratitude Lists".  Over the course of about a half hour, we made lists of things we were thankful for in four categories: Relationships, God, Growth, and God Moments.  It was refreshing just to take the time to think about all the things God has blessed me with rather than focusing on the negative things of the moment.

I would encourage you to take the time to do this as often as you need to (once a week, every day, twice a day...) to remind yourself of the good things God has blessed you with.  Here are some examples from my lists:

Relationships
- my parents: I'm grateful for their love and support and encouragement.
- my siblings: I'm grateful for the opportunity to be loving and encouraging to them.
- people like my Aunt Sue and Kristy Rosenberger who have given me an awesome example to follow as well as providing love and encouragement through e-mails and other communication
- my supporters who have helped provide this opportunity to follow God into ministry in England

God
- his abundant grace
- his unfathomable and steadfast love
- his incomprehensible mercy
- his power
- his wisdom
- his faithfulness
- his passion for his glory
- his desire for an intimate relationship with me

Growth
- I've learned to trust God enough to follow his call to England.
- I've been stepping out of my comfort zone in many ways.
- I have a growing compassion for and desire to serve and love the poor and homeless.
- I'm growing in my willingness to have my ideas and beliefs challenged.
- I'm making my faith my own and learning how to act on it.

God Moments
- The kids at Jigsaw are starting to settle down and listen to what we have to say.
- I can see evidence of relationships starting with some of the kids I minister to each week.
- Through Hope 2008 I am aware of the desire of people in England to share the Gospel and to see revival.
- the desire of many at St. Andrews to share the Gospel with the community in Blackley