Delighting in the Small Things

I was taking the curves at the maximum speed allowed as I wound down the mountain, and it was so much fun. I love the thrill of going fast, at least when I’m behind the wheel. This drive felt like a gift from God. It was Labor Day weekend spent in Great Smoky Mountain National Park. As we descended one of the peaks, I received an unexpected surprise.

I was able to coast those tight curves along the stream bed with not a single car in my way. The whole weekend had been spent behind a string of cars doing about 10 miles per hour. I will admit to a certain thrill going down those curves barely tapping the breaks with rays of sunshine dotting the shaded road and the rocky stream bed bubbling beside us. Since I live in a very flat part of the country, I don’t normally get this fun and certainly not on a busy holiday weekend. However, God knew I would delight in this and the “thrill ride” didn’t put us in danger but gave the excitement of my own personal roller coaster. It was a delightful day.

I believe God delights in giving gifts that He knows will bring us pleasure. I wasn’t doing anything that would have hurt anyone or put us in danger, but we sure had fun coasting down that mountain! Do you look at life that way? Looking for little gifts from God that bring a smile or in some way brighten your day?

James 1:17, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” These good gifts include food, shelter, clothing and other basic needs. However, since it says every gift, I believe it also includes these fun little packages that bring us joy, a smile, or a thrill that delights the recipient. What I described above may bring terror to someone else, but for me it was an out-of-the ordinary moment of fun.

What delights your heart? A dear friend of mine delights in beautiful sunrises and sunsets, especially along the water. Last summer she captured many in her travels. For my sister it’s finding just the right thing on the discount rack. For my other sister, it’s when the grandchildren enter her house and run to her with huge smiles.

When we receive gifts from loved ones, it means they are thinking of us and want to express it. God does the same. Whatever gifts God sends your way, take time to thank Him and enjoy the moment. Imagine a treasure hunt, watching for them as you go about your day. Remember that your Heavenly Father has you on His mind and delights in bringing you joy.