First Give Thanks

To worry and fret

Is hardly the way

To tell God my needs

While I'm trying to pray.

When life gets real hard

And seems rather grim,

I know that it's best

If I focus on Him.

When I first give thanks,

My spirit will rise,

Then all of my problems

Seem smaller in size.

I shan't take for granted

The new morning light,

Nor the clouds, nor the wind,

Nor the eagle in flight.

With full appreciation,

I'll sing a new song,

As my hope and my faith

Will grow to be strong.

I will give thanks

Before I receive, 

For I know that God

Is caring for me.

~ Joyce Mary Ecochard