By Steve A. Hamilton

Psalm 40:5

Introduction: Counting our many blessings is certainly a good idea especially when we are in the midst of difficult times.  However, could we actually count them all?  Is it possible to literally name them one by one?  If we wrote out an exhausted list of blessings do you think we would still leave something out? 

I. Job counted his blessings (Job 5:8-9; 9:10)

          A. In the midst of affliction Job recognized his blessings came from God.

          B. These blessings are numerous regardless of the present trouble. 

II. Our blessings are not dependent upon our happiness.

          A. When life is difficult, does that negate all the blessings we counted? 

B. Blessings are not just the things that make us happy.

                   1. There are blessings in illness and persecutions (2 Cor. 12:9-10).

                   2. Our suffering could be a blessing (1 Pet. 3:14).

                   3. Trials and temptations can bring blessings (1 Pet. 4:12-14; Jas. 1:12).

          C. People look for happiness in pleasures, riches, fame, possessions and physical appearances.  Are these necessarily blessings?

1. An adulterous relationship could bring happiness but is that a blessing? 

                   2. Good looks might make us happy but is it a blessing if it leads to fornication?

                   3. Is it a blessing to win the lottery?

          D. Moses didn’t look for blessings in pleasures or wealth (Heb. 11:24-26).

          E. Afflictions can bring the greatest blessing of all (2 Cor. 4:16-18).

          F. If suffering brings a heavenly reward, isn’t that a blessing (Rom. 8:18)?         

III. We should count our spiritual blessings most (Eph. 1:3).

          A. Forgiveness of sins (Rom. 4:7-8).

          B. Keeping God’s commands (Jas. 1:25; Rev. 22:14).

          C. Dying in the Lord (Rev. 14:13).

          D. Beatitudes (Matt. 5:3-11).

Conclusion: Spiritual blessings cannot be counted unless you are baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38).  If you would like to start counting the most important blessings in this world please come.     

Invitation #392, “Count Your Blessings”

Last modified: 05/02/08