The other day I got up late.  I hadn’t slept well, really much at all. My day began without my usual time alone with God.

Do I need to tell you that I had a very bad, awful, no good day?

You might have guessed.  I couldn’t believe the difference in where my mind went with negative thinking.  That was an eye-opener.  It was a huge realization that I cannot make it through a day on my own strength.

 

The wonders YOU have done. :: Psalm 405 :: AnExtraordinaryDay.net

 

The following day, I was back on track and read this verse:

Many, Lord my God,
are the wonders you have done,
the things you planned for us.
None can compare with you;
were I to speak and tell of your deeds,
they would be too many to declare.  Psalm 40:5

What a great verse to mediate on.  Or even memorize.

Many, Lord my God,
are the wonders you have done,

God not only does great and grand things every day, just look at the natural world around us.  But, the ability we have each day to live positive expectant lives, thinking about others before ourselves, well that doesn’t come naturally to us.  It is only through his power at work in us that helps us live that way.

Each morning as the sun rises I marvel at the beauty spread across the sky, and the best part is that I get to enjoy it with HIM.

I’m blessed to have a chair that faces the window to the east for my time with God each morning.  Often it’s still dark or nearly so as I begin my time.  As the minutes tick by, the sky is gently colored with a hint of orange or rose, before that fiery orb makes its appearance.

A few days ago, the sky looked as though someone had gotten out their paints and created an ombre look.   Nothing compares with God’s creativity. You know my desire to capture these beautiful moments with my camera.  This time, I just sat and enjoyed it and worshiped the Creator.

the things you planned for us.

Whether it’s a spectacular sunrise, a non-crabby outlook, a roof over our heads, or the blessing of family and pets….God’s wonders never cease.  He has amazing things planned for us.  I can’t wait to see the wonderful position God has planned for my husband and how he will use us to bless others.

None can compare with you;

Really.  Who or what can compare to God.

Each morning in my prayer journal, I write out my thoughts to God.  Always, I begin telling God who he is.  I know that sounds silly.  After all…God is God and he surely doesn’t need me to tell him how wonderful and great he is.  Jesus did that to some degree when he taught us to pray in Matthew 6:9-13.  What I have discovered is that repeating God’s character and qualities helps me get perspective for the day.  It helps me know who really is in control, who really is holy, who really does have strength and power, who really does put food in my mouth and gas in my car.

were I to speak and tell of your deeds,
they would be too many to declare.

I love this!!  This is one of my favorite parts of my prayer journal, writing down all the amazingly big and so small things that God has done.  And yes…there are too many to declare.  I would get writer’s cramp for sure!

 

Joy Day! :: AnExtraordinaryDay.net

 

Since today is Joy Day!

 

I think it would be fabulous to do our best to tell of God’s goodness, his gifts, his blessings, his miracles, etc.

Usually I just ask you to join me in counting ‘seven.’  But, if you just can’t stop…declare more!

Many of you, read Joy Day! each week but don’t leave your ‘seven.’  Today I want to challenge you to leave as many (or as few) as you like.  ‘Seven’ will not be our perfect number today.  Please join me in declaring “the wonders YOU have done” to God and others.

I’ll start….

God, you are amazing!  
Thank you for…

  1. a beautiful sunrise each morning
  2. an invitation to lunch with a long-time friend
  3. kitties who snuggle in close on a chilly night
  4. renewing my energy
  5. YOUR steadfast faithfulness
  6. friends who make us feel like family
  7. a new source of farm eggs a mile from our house
  8. for a husband who puts my needs before his
  9. this blog and all my bloggy friends
  10. YOUR healing at work in the lives of friends
  11. Grace.  Washing over me, undeservedly, continuously throughout the day.
  12. Hope.  Hope within me and hope for the future and for the job you have already prepared for my husband.

 

Now it your turn!  Tell of the wonders God has done!  Please join me by tapping in your ‘seven’ or more or less in the ‘share your extraordinary thoughts’ section below. If you haven’t joined in doing this…please give it a try.  Something amazing happens when we do this.

Want even more joy?  Take the Joy Dare here.

 

Thank you for stopping by today.  I appreciate you and your sweet comments make my day.

This week, try mediating on this verse and declare all the wonders God has done.

 

May your heart overflow with the joy HE generously pours into our lives.  

Diane

I’d be delighted if you’d share the extraordinary goodness here with your friends
by clicking any of  the sharing buttons at the bottom.

To receive FREE bits of inspiration like this
in your inbox or reader, subscribe now.

Let’s connect!  Facebook  ::  Pinterest  ::  Google +  ::  Shop-Longaberger Lifestyle

Sharing at these Extraordinary spots: Imparting Grace + My Freshly Brewed Life

Comments

  1. Beautiful words of inspiration and photography that I needed to hear today. You have a rare gift from God!

    • Diane says

      All praise and glory to God. 🙂 I’m blessed that he used this post to minister to you today my friend.
      [hugs]
      ~Diane

  2. Gail says

    Your blog
    My safe neighborhood and nice house
    My family, including my 4 legged snuggling pets
    Purpose in my life found through volunteering at humane society
    My husband’s willingness to continue to work although his body frequently says “retire!”
    Our church’s new pastor bringing a fresh vision to our congregation
    God’s faithfullness

    • Diane says

      Yay God! I rejoice with you Gail at God’s hand of blessing on your and your family this week.
      May your new week overflow with HIS joy!
      [hugs]
      ~Diane

  3. 1. Our mama dog, Sneakers, has found a safe place to have her puppies!
    2. We worked together as a family to methodically search the house and yard when she went missing (she’s under a storage building).
    3. My husband’s can-do attitude in making house repairs and building furniture we don’t already have (a desk, a kitchen counter, an entertainment center.
    4. My husband’s patience with me.
    5. The family reunion we attended yesterday, and the extended family ties we were able to renew.
    6. Our tomato plants, while the lower branches are succumbing to the cooler weather, the fruit-bearing branches are still in good shape.
    7. Our lone green pepper plant, which will yield about 2 dozen peppers.
    8. Our pumpkin vines, which are beginning to flower.
    9. Calm, foggy mornings.
    10. God’s patience and mercy for me and my family.
    11. God’s help in putting one foot in front of the other, when my strength is gone.

    • Diane says

      I’m blessed, LuAnn, that you couldn’t stop at ‘seven’ in declaring God’s wonders in your life!
      How fun to have puppies and fresh veggies and a hubby who can make stuff and most of all to see God’s goodness at work in the everyday.
      May your new week give you God’s joy beyond imagination.
      ~Diane

  4. Gwen says

    My very sweet, kind husband
    We five siblings get along and there is no family rift
    A gift card that paid for dinner one night and part of another
    A dear friend who flew in today and I was her first stop!
    My husband is wise about reading my symptoms and guides me to rest
    My niece is marrying the kindest man in less than a week!!
    My Mom and I chat daily
    My sister never neglects my Mom’s home. She gets fresh knick knacks to brighten and keep Moms home current and fun!
    I have a nice day (I will rest for it!) for Tuesday with my friend from out of town
    Blogs are good clean fun
    I am tired so I will say Joy Day
    Diane have you considered trying to get small speaking jobs for women’s groups in the area? Your Joy Day what we did today in breaking down this passage how to keep trusting even when the world would say give up… These are topics women would listen to. We have women’s groups and we have speakers. Even if you could do two a month–$125 per time? It would be a start. Then a one minute spot on a local radio station Christian where you build on principles of your blog. You’d use a verse like the widow and she used the jar she had and oil she had and gathered jars and oil came could be then a one minute craft using things on hand to make a craft of delight. Lead them to your blog. Do the spot once a week. Ask for $35. It gives exposure. Am I being crazy?!!
    Go to the local Christian bookstore. Give away a bookmark with your photo and sayings. Then offer small bundles for sale that provide you a bigger profit yet people might buy (seasonally and if you’re on the radio then people would know you) and get your face and name out in the area. Travel up to 60 miles in every direction. Be on two radio stations. Do the same program. But like here, our Christian station loses signal oh 50 miles away and another picks up. That would be $70 a week and I’m sure it could be digitally sent. Just some ideas because you are that marketable, especially after these hardships(?)

    • Diane says

      I love your joyful heart Gwen! Your attitude of gratitude is contagious. 🙂
      And no, I don’t think you’re crazy. I think you are creative. I will seriously pray about what you have suggested…and since this area is new to me….I will see what is available in this area. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your ideas and for your care and concern. It means more than you’ll ever know.
      [hugs]
      ~Diane

  5. Your photo is truly amazing!

    Today, I am thankful for:

    1. My children who bless me with their service to the Lord.
    2. The privilege to work at my church and help support our family.
    3. Homeschooling challenges. They cause me to lean in for greater wisdom!
    4. Extra work for my husband on Saturday which helped by food for the week.
    5. Friends who send prayers of healing through Facebook.
    6. The birth of my great niece! She’s beautiful.
    7. Getting closer to finishing my eBook! Thank you Lord for my editor/designer!

    Blessings to you!

    • Diane says

      Thanks Barbie! God paints the most beautiful pictures. 🙂
      I love your ‘seven’ and the joy that comes through the sharing. I too, had worked for three churches we were a part of over the years. What a blessing for you. God is so good to answer the prayer for daily bread, bringing healing to your body, and helping you with your book.
      Praying that this week is full of joy-filled moments.
      ~Diane

  6. Mel says

    I coulda told ya the end results of NOT taking that G-d time. LOL. Funny what a HUGE difference that routine makes in our lives, eh?
    It’s been a mess here with an addled brain and a beat up body. I’ve been able to return to some of my routine and even if I’m not 100% focused and centered there’s a vast difference in how things wear with me when I do get that time. And the people around me CAN tell the difference…and will point it out to me, bless their hearts. 😉

    Joy Day…
    I’m grateful for those who brave telling me the truth…that’s not the most comfortable thing to do.
    I am sooooo graced to have a partner who cares about me and who cares for me.
    There’s the opportunity to correct a nonunion fracture…isn’t it amazing what can be done!
    I do have an amazing surgeon….he’s taken good care of me.
    I’ve been able to spend some time on the patio in the sunshine.
    I’ve been entertained by the most amazing, joyful hummingbirds on the patio…whizzing around and posing for a photo or two.
    G-d took good care of the girl who had to travel internationally for her work. And I didn’t fret about her safety! (k…a part of that could be the muscle relaxers I have to take…LOL)
    I’ve been able to resume bits of what’s ‘normal’ for me. Not bad 2 weeks later, eh!
    Sunrises have been amazing and later. Both bring me joy! LOL
    We have a pirate flag flying for Talk Like a Pirate Day….and I will attach my (stuffed toy) parrot to my wheelchair and play cuz I can!
    We have some spidery lights up…makes my heart happy to decorate even if it’s wayyyy limited from my norm.
    The sister sent me Halloween aerial decorations for the car I can’t drive. LOL. But I can put ’em on his Jeep! 😉
    I get a chance to heal and have people praying for me in that process.
    And I have a G-d that loves me….grumpy and ungrateful as I can get some moments…who makes arrangements for me to ‘get over it’ and helps me celebrate the abundance I DO have.

    • Diane says

      Your words warm my heart Mel. I sense a deeper gratitude in your heart than ever before. And even if the muscle relaxers mellow the reactions, your spirit is sweet and deep and true. I confess I don’t even know when Pirate Day is….but I’m sure you’ll have something on the blog so we’ll all know and can get our “arrrrrs” in. 😉
      May your week overflow with HIS joy!
      [hugs]
      ~Diane

  7. Just wanted to say “thank you” Diane for the wonderful words of God’s great wisdom.

    • Diane says

      Praise God, Susan. It’s only through HIS grace.
      I pray your week is joy-filled in every way!
      [hugs]
      ~Diane

  8. Beth says

    This was a beautiful reminder of how to begin each day…and how to go about our days…always giving thanks for his goodness. I know the time I spend in His word every morning has such an impact on how my day will go.
    I’m thankful for…
    Fall and the fall colors
    Falling leaves
    Bonfires (had our first last night)
    My husband being home
    My church
    The fabulous community of online friends
    My children and that in less than a month we will be together again

    God bless!!

    • Diane says

      Thank you Beth…
      It really is amazing how we think we can ‘get by’ without that time.
      Thank you for taking time to share your ‘seven’ here. My heart rejoices with yours at God’s goodness in your life.
      May your new week overflow with HIS joy!!

Please Share Your Extraordinary Thoughts!

*

AMAZON ASSOCIATES DISCLOSURE: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.