Sharon W. Betters

Today’s Treasure

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body, and be thankful.

Colossians 3:15

Dear Friends,

As I searched my Bible study files for Daily Treasure writing ideas, I rediscovered old blog posts. Some go back to 2008 when Chuck and I first started writing blogs. Each one reminds me of a special treasure the Lord sent my way in the ordinary moments of life. Though the style and format are different than Daily Treasure and some of the articles are a little more casual and personal, I will be sharing some of them as a Daily Treasure series called “Treasures Along the Way.”

Over the years, I have encouraged women to journal and as I read these older articles, I realized that my blog had become a sort of journal. Each one reminds me of sweet moments long forgotten. The Lord often tells us to “remember” His faithfulness and to erect monuments as a symbol of His presence and love. As I read, I saw each article as a “monument” celebrating God’s unique faithfulness to me.

If you do not journal, perhaps this is the time to start. If you don’t know where to start, or don’t see yourself as a writer start a Gratitude Journal. Every day, jot down one thing for which you are thankful and why. Your notes could be as simple as,

I’m grateful for -

the sunshine, because the winter has been so gray – thank you, Lord
our neighbors who always look after our home when we are away
our church family and the way they make the church a safe place
my health, especially as I see my friends struggling
my job, and the ability to pay bills and be generous in giving
the car, it’s still running even though it has over 200,000 miles on it
Your mercy, I don’t deserve it
Your grace, how I need it

Each entry becomes a memorial stone designed to help cultivate an attitude of gratitude.

This devotional series does not have one theme. It’s my prayer that each day the Lord will speak uniquely to each reader in a way that turns hearts toward Him.

Treasured by Him,

Sharon

LIFE-GIVING ENCOURAGEMENT

As you prepare for worship with your church family, ask the Lord to remind you of specific ways He cares for you through your church. Drill down to one particular person, then seek them out and tell them how they are a blessing to you. Take a notebook to church and jot down references to gratitude and remembering God’s faithfulness during the sermon. Perhaps this is the day you start your journal.

Sharon W. Betters is a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, pastor’s wife, and cofounder of MARKINC Ministries, where she is the Director of Resource Development. Sharon is the author of several books, including Treasures of Encouragement, Treasures in Darkness, and co-author with Susan Hunt of Aging with Grace. She is the co-host of the Help & Hope podcast and writes Daily Treasure, an online devotional.

Subscribe to Daily Treasure and have devotionals like this one delivered to your inbox.

Contact Sharon with comments or questions at d ailytreasure@markinc.org.