Grace grows strong in a heart full of gratitude.
As we sow thankfulness seeds we are rewarded with a deeper appreciation of life.
Yet our hearts can be so cold, shrivelled by worry, anxiety, fears.
Casting our cares seems to send them into orbit for nanoseconds before they return multiplied and heavier than before.
How can we learn to live fully and freely? Is there a way to have lasting peace, joy and contentment?
I’m slowly discovering that joy seeps in when my heart turns heavenward.
When I lean heavy on God’s grace and less on my own understanding.
Hope replaces discouragement the more I trust God to take care of things.
Feeding on His word nourishes my inner being.
Daily reflection on and remembering His #1000gifts is an exercise in maintaining a grateful heart.
There are days when He feels far away and I forget to pray. Try to do things in my own limited strength. Neglect to seek His guidance and wisdom.
Yet He stands patient, ready and willing to step in as soon as I allow Him entry.
An open heart is a place He desires to inhabit and fill to overflowing.
Our task is to see our emptiness and be willing to ask God to fill it. And as He fills us with His love, joy and peace they will overflow out to others.
Joining here with Lisa-Jo for Five Minute Friday and with Mel for Essential Fridays. You are very welcome and warmly invited to take part.
‘A heart unfurls’
Circle of thorns
surround a heart curled small
self-protective, bud-tight
against assailing light
Alabaster jar breaks
releasing its sweet perfume
of death, burial, rising free
into the waiting room
Piercing cruel, sharp,
upon the brow so deep
scarlet-red begins to seep
Dripping soft and slow
new life from old
flames bright and grows
The heart unfurls
as gently, one by one,
its folds embrace the Son
Warmed by Love
its fragrance fills
scent of gratitude spills
as petals fall to ground
©JoyLenton2014
Poetry Joy 
hey ! visitor from lisa jo’s five minute friday, and that was awesome !! loved that first part because i can definitely relate. Hope your having a fantastic mothers day weekend 🙂
Hi Millie. It’s good to meet you. Thanks for stopping by to leave an encouraging comment. Happy Mother’s Day to you too! 🙂
Hallo Joy…joy seeps in as we turn our hearts heavenward…a strong statement of fact. Your words as always so encouraging and true. On the ocean we always trust God and He has always taken care of us. But on land I forget that sometimes. Your faith fuels your words.
Not visiting from FmF;)
Was actually hoping for a cup of tea :))
Pxx
Hello Patricia. It’s good to see you! Come on board a while.. we’ll have that cup of tea and a natter. cake or biscuits too if you’d like them. You’re always welcome here, my friend. Until next time.. love, J Xxx 🙂