I know I run the risk of offending some with my next statement, but I must be truthful. I listen to Christmas music before Thanksgiving. There, I said it! Whew!  What a load has been lifted! I have heard all the arguments for preserving the Thanksgiving holiday and how it is being pushed aside, but I just can’t help it. I love Christmas music, especially the old Bing Crosby songs.  One of our family’s favorites is “Count your Blessings instead of Sheep” by Irving Berlin, written in 1952. (A great story on how he wrote the song can be found in the book The Irving Berlin Reader.)

As children of God, we are commanded to be thankful, not just during a season of the year, but always. (Psalm 100:4 & Colossians 3:15) For our family, the holiday season is not usually this… calm.  This year of 2020 has been…. interesting.  Dare I say, this year has been good? Yes, I can, because I have been counting my blessings.  With all that has happened, there is always something to be grateful for.  Perhaps, with the paring down of all the hustle and bustle of life, we are left with what really matters: our faith, our family, our friends, and our freedoms. May I encourage you tonight (and every night) instead of worrying about what might be or what has already been, to count your blessings.  I think you will find that you will wake up with a grateful heart.  

When I’m worried, And I can’t sleep
I count my blessings instead of sheep
And I fall asleep, Counting my blessings

When my bankroll, Is gettin’ small
I think of when, I had none at all
And I fall asleep, Counting my blessings

I think about a nursery, And I picture curly heads
And one by one I count them, As they slumber in their beds

If you’re worried, And you can’t sleep
Just count your blessings instead of sheep
And you’ll fall asleep, Counting your blessings

Share this post

Miriam Chung, Christian School Teacher

Mrs. Chung grew up around the work of the ministry and now has the privilege of teaching at the North Valley Baptist Schools. She and her husband faithfully teach young people and are a vital asset to the ministry of NVBC.