True Thankfulness

In light of the tough economic times that seem to be looming on the horizon for the markets of the entire world, it seems that every one I’ve spoken to are in the process of planning for what looks to be lean times ahead. Every day we hear of more job lay-offs and very little hiring of people anywhere. Many have lost thousands of dollars in retirement funds and we all know what the housing situation is. The boom of post WW II is slowly grinding to a crawl and prayfully not to a complete stop. Well, so-much for the depressed thoughts of the day. My prayer for each and every one of my readers is for you to truly examine your life and be thankful. I know many of you are suffering great losses of those things you’ve worked so hard for your entire life, but let’s be honest with ourselves, life holds no promises. I’ve been on top, lost it all twice, and nearly lost it all a third time in my lifetime, but I’ve refused to give in or give up. Some days you’ve just got to take a deep breathe, sit down and weigh your options, pick the best one and press on. And, don’t forget to read the comics or watch a cartoon or two; Laugh a little.
Please join me in remembering a great icon of the entertainment community. The Pillsbury Doughboy died yesterday of a yeast infection and trauma complications from repeated pokes to the belly. He was 71. Doughboy was buried in a lightly greased coffin. Dozens of celebrities turned out to pay their respects. Those present included Mrs. Butterworth, Hungry Jack, the California Raisins, Betty Crocker, the Hostess Twinkies, and Captain Crunch. The grave site was piled high with flours. Aunt Jemima delivered the eulogy, lovingly describing Doughboy as a man who never knew how much he was kneaded. Doughboy rose quickly in show business, but his later life was filled with turnovers. He was never considered a very smart cookie, wasting most of his dough on half-baked schemes. Despite being a little flaky at times, he still was a crusty soul and was considered a positive roll model for millions. Doughboy is survived by his wife, Play Dough, two children, John Dough and Jane Dough, and reportedly one in the oven. He is also survived by his elderly father, Pop Tart. The funeral was held at 3:50 for about 20 minutes. If this made you smile, for even a second, please rise to the occasion and take time to share it with someone who may be having a crumby day and kneads it.
[Psalm 100] This Psalm is one of the greatest songs of the Bible. It calls us to realize that we belong to God, our Maker, and to praise Him for His goodness, mercy and truth. Do you, “Serve the Lord with gladness” every day no matter your physical well-being? Maybe your service to God is more grudging than glad because you’ve got bigger fish to fry. Our selfish ways draw us away from our Maker when we’re more concerned about our financial woes than our spiritual viability. If you want to get through these rough times with some sort of sanity, then stop struggling with the world. It’s the schemes of the evil one that has you on the ropes fighting for your life (lifestyle). Put on the armor of God and stand strong. (Ephesians 6: 10-18) Did you hear me? I said stand strong. Don’t be a spiritual whiner walking around telling everybody, “Well, I guess it’s God’s will.” What we’re dealing with is of our own making, not God’s. God’s will for man is to be reconciled with Him. He loves us so much He sent his Son to die for our sins. True thankfulness is more than being grateful for what we possess.