It's that time of year - when we count our blessings.  Of course, we should count them all the time.  When times are very tough, and we count our blessings, it is amazing what a lift that can be.

I'm thankful that my children walk in truth, and follow after God.  That is huge to me.  The times I've been very concerned about them getting off track, I've gone to prayer.  Without prayer, and the Holy Spirit, we'd be sunk.  God gets all the glory.  He has shown me how faithful He is.  I can only think how foolish I am to not spend more time in prayer than I do.

I am thankful for truth, and for the men and women whom God raised up to preserve the Word of God.  Those faithful ones who helped to lead the church out of the dark ages and into the light of the Word. 

I am thankful for so much.  God has provided so much for me.  Everything.  I am thankful that while I fall so short, and am so undeserving, He loves me still.  My sin debt is paid, and I am His.

Of course, I am thankful for my husband.  He is God's greatest gift to me, outside of salvation.

My "thankful" list is obviously not exhaustive.

Now, I'd like to add one more thing here, not related to thankfulness.  It's related to lies we tell ourselves.  Nancy Leigh DeMoss has written a book "Lies Women Believe, and the Truth that Sets Them Free."  Well, I got to thinking ... what lies do I tell myself?  I want to come back to this regularly, and post the lies in my own life that I'm trying to overcome with the Lord's help.

Today's lie:  Exercise won't matter - it will not make any difference.  (OK, I know it matters, but I tell myself it doesn't matter enough.)

The truth:  It makes a huge difference.  It tones us, strengthens our cardiovascular system, increases circulation ... the benefits are countless. It matters!

Solution:  Stop lying to myself.  It matters enough to make it a priority, so schedule it in.  Be careful not to set the goals too high - but do a simple routine every day. 

I believe we should be good stewards over all that God has given us - too many Christians are thwarted in their service - to their families and to others - because we don't take care of ourselves.  It matters.

What are you thankful for?  And what lies do you tell yourself?