Blessings during the tough times?

Over the weekend I was listening to background music as I was relaxing.  I was thinking of how God has blessed me over the years even through tough times.  I have listened to widows during their early years of widowhood on wanting to know how they will get through the early part of this journey.  Many who have been widowed for some time, have been able to share how they have gotten through this section of their lives. 

As we walk this journey of widowhood, we find we truly need to rely on others and God to help us take one step at a time.  Over the years of being there for others, the one thing that stands out is watching these ladies move forward with confidence.  Does that mean it is easy?  Absolutely not!  However, with God’s help and the help of others, you can make it through this stage. 

One of the many things I have seen throughout the years, just blesses my heart.  There is a group of us which meet the first Saturday of the month.    All are at different stages of their widowhood.   We often chat about what is going on in our lives and share what we do for the holidays.  As we all know the first year or two are difficult.  Kleenex is a necessity whether there are tears of sorrow or laughter.  When a newer widow is sharing and is sitting next to a couple of widows who are seasoned widows, the seasoned widow often takes her by the hand to let her know she understands.   It seems like it is not a long time before that new widow, is taking the hand of a newer widow to let her know we are there for her. 

It also blesses my heart to get that phone call from one of these ladies letting me know that someone has called her to take her out for coffee or just chat on the phone.   Mainly thanking them for just being there for them. 

As I was thinking of God’s blessings, one of my favorite scriptures on blessings is:   Psalms 106:1- 6 (ESV) Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. The LORD works righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed.

This scripture means a lot to me as it truly speaks to me.   It was also my mother’s favorite scripture.   The evening before she passed away, she had her Bible opened to this scripture.  Because this was so important to her, this was part of her funeral service.  I am sure there were a lot of times she relied on God being she was a mother of ten children! 

Over the years, I have kept a list of many blessings I have had.  There are times, many of them are still hard to remember but just jotting them down and writing the blessed outcome, makes a big difference.

Many of you may be wondering why I would be blogging about blessings just before the holidays.  To many this may seem odd and I totally understand.  If you follow my blog, last month I suggested for Christmas to continue to hang the stocking of your loved one.  Let your guests know ahead of time to bring a written note of your loved one.  As they arrived, put the note in the stocking.  During the down time, share the stories with all.  The stories can be funny memories or something special they remember.

I understand that this is a tough time, however, if we can remember some of the blessings we  had with our spouse, it helps.   We know it is easy to be down and out during this time and be wow is me.  If we begin to remember the good times, it helps us to keep on remembering what blessings we have had.  God promises in Luke 6:21 which reads:  Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.

As you go through this season of your life, may you be able to see the blessings God has given you.   Just know, I am praying for you.   God is there for you each step of the way. We just need to believe it!

Blessings to each of you!