Right now, I’m working my way through Foster and Smith’s Devotional Classics during my devotional time. It’s a great collection of spiritual writings from Christian thinkers throughout the ages. The reading this week was from Jonathan Edwards’ Religious Affections. Edwards implores his readers to “Be fervent in spirit, serving the Lord” (Rom. 12:11, modified KJV). The eighteenth-century theologian doesn’t allow for halfhearted measures when it comes to the Christian faith. Our hearts must be so deeply affected by our contact with Christ that all else pales in comparison. In the words of that old devotional song, he must be my everything, my all.

One of the suggested exercises at the conclusion of the reading was to make a list of all the things that God has done for you. The idea is that this process will lead a disciple to place of praise when he / she is cognizant of God’s rich blessings. In keeping with Edwards’ theme, such an exercise will help the disciple appreciate that every good and perfect gift comes from the hand of God. The exercise was surprisingly simple; I quickly filled up a page full of blessings, even filling in the margins with more and more things the Lord has done in my life. I couldn’t help but think of the words of the Psalmist; in a very real way, my page was overflowing with the many things He has done for me. And, I must admit, my praise was a tad sweeter after reflecting upon such things.

If you have a regular period of devotion, I encourage you to take a few minutes and go through this simple little exercise. I can assure you it will be a rich experience. It may surprise you at just how much God has been doing in your life. There’s something powerful about seeing your own page full of blessings.