Grab a pen and paper and jot down 7 things you are grateful for. Here are some categories to get some ideas going: (Health, Home, Family/friends, Job, Food, Nature, Education, Opportunities, Talents and Skills).

Here are mine:

I am grateful for…

1. Being in a Bible study group with authentic ladies who love Jesus.

2. My two daughters who teach me how to play.

3. My amazing husband who encourages me daily.

4. My church and the people who go there

5. Books that lead me closer to Jesus.

6. The ability to play softball.

7. Coffee and dear friends to share it with

Now, think of some things you desire and list those: These are more personal and revolve around your heart’s longings, not necessarily your goals.

Although we have many things to be grateful for, we still find ourselves longing for more at times. King David was a man who wanted more (maybe not in a good way) but instead of talking to God about it, he took something that didn’t belong to him and caused a lot of pain for the people around him as well as in his own life.  God confronted David after he sinned with Bathsheba and was grieved that He had given David so much but it wasn’t enough. God told David that He could have given him much, much more if he had only asked.

Bob Hudson suggests that behind every sinful act there is a holy desire. This makes me wonder two things…can we ask our Good Father to meet our longings or will we sin in order to get what we want? I wonder what David was really longing for when he made a terrible choice that afternoon. Take some time to get specific with God about your heart’s desires. If needed, take time to repent for not going to God with your requests. He loves us and forgives us!

 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! ~Matthew 7:11