Just For Today Notice The Gifts

Just for today, I will take time to notice the gifts in me, in others, and in my surroundings and let the rest go.

Brothers and sisters, continue to think about what is good and worthy of praise. Think about what is true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected.  (Philippians 4:8 ERV)

Both in the Bible and in the “12 Promises of A.A.” we are encouraged to trust that as we build our lives on the unfailing love of God and maintain our sobriety, we will notice certain gifts coming alive in us.  They include experiencing new freedom and joy in life; seeing how our experience can benefit others; shifting from self-seeking to interest in others; growing the ability to handle situations that used to baffle us.  The best gift is saved for the last, we will suddenly realize that God is doing for us what we could not do for ourselves.

Give thanks to the Father. He has made you able to have what he has promised to give all his holy people, who live in the light.  (Colossians 1:12 ERV)

While it's valid to maintain an inventory around our character defects so we don't slip into destructive attitudes and behaviours, it's strengthening and life-giving to pay attention to what is changing and growing and becoming beautiful in us. 

God chose you to be his people. You are royal priests. You are a holy nation. You are God’s special treasure. You are all these things so that you can give him praise. God brought you out of darkness into his wonderful light.  (1 Peter 2:9 NIRV)

Prayer:  Thank you God for the many gifts I have already experienced in this life with You in recovery.  Help me to be aware of even more today.  Amen