READ: MATTHEW 5:16; PHILIPPIANS 2:1-18; 1 JOHN 3:1

Next time you see a full moon, try this: Grab a small coin, and go outside. Then, hold it out in front of you, close one eye, and see if you can cover the moon with the coin.

Isn’t it strange that you can completely block out something as big, beautiful, and bright as a full moon with one small coin? Sometimes, little things can block out much bigger things.

For example, we can get stuck focusing on only the small things that bother us, so much so that we can’t even see the big, beautiful blessings God has given us. Every day we experience little rough spots, whether at home, school, work, church, etc. It’s easy to fixate on these things and grumble, even to the point we don’t realize how our demeanor is affecting those around us.

While God cares about every detail in our lives, and He wants us to tell Him about the things that annoy or disappoint us, we run into a problem when we let these things eclipse the immense goodness God has filled our lives with. He calls us to acknowledge the blessings He has lavished on us, including the biggest and brightest blessing of all—eternal life with Jesus.

Why is it so important to acknowledge and thank God for these blessings? Well, when we do, we’re less likely to let the little things get in the way of recognizing God’s presence in our lives and reflecting His love to others. When we dwell on God’s goodness, it transforms us from the inside out, helping us know God’s love better—and share it with others more readily.

If we know Jesus, we don’t have to let small disappointments get in the way of seeing His goodness and sharing His love with the people around us. Through faith, He has filled us with the light of His love, and we can shine out for others to see. When little things make us angry or disappointed, we can share our feelings with Jesus. Then focus again on the big, bright blessings He’s given us. • A. W. Smith

• What disappointments or annoyances are getting in the way of seeing God’s goodness in your life right now? Consider spending some time naming these things and telling Jesus about them.

• What blessings have you seen in your life lately? Consider writing these down and thanking God for them!

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12 (NIV)