A thankful heart

Pastor John
Last night I went to bed and felt so happy, so content and so very thankful for all Jesus has done for me. I just kept thanking Jesus for everything until I fell asleep.

Sometimes I get still and get overwhelmed with what Jesus has done for me, what Jesus has taught me and the great mercy that He has had on my life! I looked back and found an email I sent you a while ago and attached it (below). It was sweet to read it, but what is even sweeter is how He is still doing for me, He is still teaching me and He is still having mercy on my life! What a sweet Savior, what a precious friend!
I never want to forget what He does for me, how He loves me and how He keeps me. At the bottom in red are the things I have added! I know there is much much more……….but it’s still wonderful to think on these things!

1/27/12
Hi Pastor John

Since last weekend, I’ve been thinking about how much I’ve learned and am still learning. The Lord has had such mercy on me, and as I’ve been writing these things, it really makes me see how blessed I am. These are the thoughts I had, day and night. Sometimes as I was falling asleep, I would think of something and write it down.

1. The importance of tithes/offerings.
2. My name was written in the Lamb’s book of life before time began.
3. One receives the holy Ghost with “stammering lip” and “other tongues”.
4. Don’t speed.
5. Leave something with people you see – even if it’s just a smile.
6. It’s ok to be happy, laugh and be free in the spirit.
7. We are different from the world because of the spirit that dwells within us – not because of our outward appearance or ceremonies.
8. The holy Ghost will dwell in an unclean temple…..God is merciful.
9. I can trust the love of God and the love of God in my brothers and sisters.
10. You can have a perfect heart and still make mistakes.
11. Traditions bind God’s people
12. The truth will indeed set you free.
13. When God puts two people together, it’s a beautiful thing.
14. There is perfect order in God’s ways.
15. You can feel safe in your Pastor’s hands.
16. It’s ok to ask questions.
17. You must be able to stand open before God before you can have perfect fellowship with His saints.
18. When you fall, God wants you to learn, get up, and keep moving forward.
19. Jesus’ sacrifice was IT!
20. Jesus is IT!
21. We are human. Everyone of us has battles.
22. The meanings of different doctrines I’ve heard through out the years.
23. If you know the truth, all the counterfeits will be obvious.
24. Spiritual authority.
25. The devil has no control over my life.
26. God has every bit of control over my life.
27. The love of God is so deep, my human brain cannot comprehend – but it’s exciting trying to find out!
28. What God gives us is for people not against them.
29. Benjamin Franklin (not the Bible) said “Cleanliness is next to Godliness”. (Funny, I always heard this, but never knew who said it….duh.)
30. Two foolish virgins cannot get along with each other. A wise virgin can get along with anybody.
31. I WANT TO BE SUBDUED!
32. God can heal anything….sickness, disease, a broken heart, a broken relationship, our thoughts.
33. Happiness comes from God…. not the world.
34. Jesus is my bestest friend….. He has never left me alone. Ever.
35. God’s mercy is remarkable.

When I came to your house two years ago, I thought I was lost and didn’t have a chance. Just look at what the Lord has done for me! I’m so thankful for His mercy. I’m thankful that in this great big world, He looked down and saw me and my family and led us to you….. all of you! There is nothing that God can’t do……for anyone.

36. The sincerity of the love of God that grows deeper and deeper in my heart
37. The simplicity of life in Christ
38. The peace that comes with trusting in Jesus
39. The joy that comes in the morning…. afternoon…. and night.
40. The sweetness of Jesus taking care of the painful moments in my life
41. The love and mercy that He continues to show
42. The family, the fellowship and the love that only He gives

What a wonderful life, Pastor John! Even in times of trouble, heartache, sickness and pain, He makes it all worth it. We are truly blessed!
I love you very much!

Michelle