Grateful for NOW
I have most recently been confronted by several things, not only in my own life but also as I scour the internet and watch endless reels on social media. I try to curate my algorithm to show more creative or inspirational things, you know? Not only to feel good, but also to remind me to be more grateful and to keep creating or finding inspiration from the things around me.
You see, it’s quite easy to get stuck focusing on all the things that either aren’t what you want, wished for, or just aren’t going well. A leaky roof (something I finally got fixed). A car that isn’t running, but you’re still paying it off (something we’re currently dealing with). Or your bank account doesn’t quite look like you feel it should, even after all the hard work you and your partner have put in day in and day out. Like, for instance, having to drain your 401(k) to save your house because you’re behind on your taxes. The list goes on, and many of us have similar stories we could share—and rightfully so. I mean, life ain’t easy, and it definitely ain’t for the faint of heart.
But a reel I recently came across reminded me of something so simple, and yet so powerful. It reminded me of what was important. It said something like this: "The next time you are complaining about the hardships you are facing, the bills, the struggles... remember, this is the life you wished for."
I was taken aback by that statement. Taken aback because I’ve often found myself falling into the trap of comparison or focusing on my lack while others seemingly have SO MUCH MORE. Sounds ridiculous, doesn’t it? It’s like I totally forgot about all the victories, all the good, all the blessings that have been bestowed along the way. Insane, I know. I’m sure no one else ever finds themselves in the same place. Wink. 😉
But the powerful thing—the thing that made such a huge impact on me—is that it reminded me to be grateful for the NOW.
This is, in fact, the life I wished for. The life I prayed for. For me. For my family.
There is so much good in my life RIGHT NOW. So many daily blessings. My health. A roof over our heads (whether it’s leaking or not). Amazing kids. A healthy family life. Friends who not only want to be a part of our lives but also look for ways to bless us just because.
That alone should be enough, right?
But often I feel like the enemy does what only he can do—distract us from what’s good right in front of us and get us to focus on lies or distractions. Because listen, in the end, it’s all distractions.
The Bible emphasizes gratitude as a vital aspect of faith, encouraging believers to give thanks in all circumstances (thanks, Copilot 😄).
I’ll leave you with some of my favorite Scriptures on gratitude. I hope they help remind you to stay in a mindset of thankfulness whenever you find yourself struggling.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 — Give thanks in all circumstances.
Psalm 100:4 — Enter His gates with thanksgiving.
Philippians 4:6 — Do not be anxious about anything.
Psalm 107:1 — Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.
I hope this helps you find peace in the NOW, whatever you may be struggling with. Know that His goodness surrounds us no matter what your bank account says, what your address says, or whatever life is throwing at you.
Take a breath. You’ll be fine.
Just remember to be grateful for... NOW.
Stay Thirsty My Friends,
Jason Torres
