Our Daily Bread: Picking Up the Pieces After Job LossSample

THE BLESSING TREE: I read about a young couple whose business had failed, and they had little money to spend at Christmas. They were going to have to move out of their house after the new year. But they didn't want their holiday season to be spoiled because of it. So they decided to throw a party. When the guests arrived, they saw a cedar tree decorated with one string of lights and small rolled-up pieces of paper tied to the limbs with ribbon.

"Welcome to our 'blessing tree'!" they said, beaming. "In spite of hard times, God has blessed us in so many ways that we decided to dedicate our tree to Him. Each piece of paper describes a blessing He has given us this year." This couple has faced more trials since then, but they have chosen to stay discusesd on the Lord. They often remark that the Christmas with the "blessing tree" was one of their most beautiful, because they could testify as Mary did: "My spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. . . . He who is mighty has done great things for me" (LUKE 1:47-49).

Whatever your difficulties, they needn't spoil the things that matter most, for nothing can spoil Christ! Stay focused on Jesus and seek ways to share His blessings with others; perhaps through your own "blessing tree." -Joanie Yoder

Praising God in your trials turns burdens to blessings.