Counting Our Blessings – A Journey of Faith and Gratitude

Introduction

Counting Our Blessings is a powerful reminder that gratitude transforms even the hardest journeys. During this past year, Susan and I have walked through pain, medical treatments, and recovery while witnessing God’s provision at every turn. This devotion invites you to pause, reflect, and rejoice in the blessings of God’s faithfulness.

Count Your Blessings – Ingrid DuMosch & The London Fox Singers

Scripture Reading

Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

James 1:2-4
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”

Life Application

Every challenge can become an opportunity to thank God. Even in our most difficult times—pain, medical procedures, and uncertainty—God’s presence never leaves us. As Paul wrote to the Philippians, prayer and thanksgiving bring peace beyond understanding. James reminds us that trials develop steadfastness, shaping us into Christlike maturity. The practical takeaway is simple: pause daily to count your blessings, even in adversity. Write them down, speak them aloud, or pray them with your family. This practice strengthens your faith and lifts your spirit.

Prayer

Gracious Lord, thank You for carrying us through trials and showing us Your faithfulness in every detail. Open our hearts to see blessings even when life feels heavy. May we grow in steadfast faith, joy, and gratitude. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Our Gratitude Journey

• Susan’s first spinal fracture – No fall.  Just riding in a car.  Osteoporosis – October 2024 …
• Doctors, surgeons, and Indiana University Hospital … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Friends with calls, flowers, cards, and food … THANKS BE TO GOD
• X-rays, MRIs, and medical care … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Daughter Beth and her family close by … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Kyphoplasty #1 … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Two more spinal fractures – March 2025
• Daily Forteo shots for healing … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Kyphoplasty #2 … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Friends bringing lunch visits … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Our children and grandchildren visiting … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Back braces, walkers, and therapy support … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Fourth spinal fracture – March 2025
• Kyphoplasty #3 … THANKS BE TO GOD
• In-home physical therapy and caring therapists … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Indiana Spine Center and Dr. Gentile’s nerve blocks … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Susan K. visiting from Palm Beach to care for us … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Five weeks of 24/7 in-home caregivers … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Therapy progress bringing less pain and more mobility … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Jet ride to Michigan – Bo, God’s angel, helping … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Five weeks in Pentwater , Michigan with family, grandchildren, friends  and even five family dogs … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Return jet ride back to Indianapolis by angel Bo.  … THANKS BE TO GOD
• Now virtually pain-free, Susan continues therapy and progress … THANKS BE TO GOD

Every moment is sweeter and more precious than before — THANKS BE TO GOD.

Worship in Song

God On the Mountain – Lynda Randle (Live)

Reflections

Our journey from October 2024 to September 2025 was marked by countless medical visits, procedures, and moments of pain—but also by unending gratitude. Each step, each helping hand, and every act of kindness became a testimony of God’s faithfulness. Now, as Susan continues therapy virtually pain-free, we celebrate the blessings of family, friends, healing, and hope.

We are spiritual beings here to have a human experience; may Christ’s presence make each moment sweeter. Hugs,  Bill

Acknowledgments

We thank:

• Pixabay for free, high-quality artwork.
• AZ Quotes for quotations when appropriate.
• YouTube Gospel Music for beautiful worship music.
• We recommend GotQuestions.org for further Bible study.