Sunshine is a gift that all creatures on the planet enjoy. Three Horses, original oil painting by Steve Henderson.

Years ago, I spoke with a new mom about being lonely, and mentioned that I had experienced my share of that painful condition.

“Oh, I’m not LONELY!” she shot back, as if we were discussing leprosy or something.

You get the same reaction when you admit, “I would love to have a little more money, just to make things easier, you know.”

“Oh, I never pray for MONEY!” insecure Christians counter in alarm.

Oh, come on, people — of course you pray for money. If it weren’t such a pressing need in our lives Jesus wouldn’t have told us not to worry about what we eat, drink, or wear (all of which require money) in Matthew 6: 31.

That being said, many of us have more than we think we do, especially in wealthier countries. And while it’s tempting to pray for enough money that we never have to worry about paying for anything again, we forget that we have access to some very precious treasures that cost little, or nothing. It’s worth recognizing their existence and being grateful:

Please follow the link to 5 Blessings You Don’t Have to Be Rich to Enjoy at my BeliefNet Column, Commonsense Christianity. I would print the whole piece here if I could, but can only post a sample.

Have you written a book, and you’re looking for an image to put on the cover? Steve Henderson’s art is licensed through Art Licensing, and they can help you with the process of getting the right image for your publication. Click on the picture to see available images.

This article is linked to Nourishing Joy, Modest Monday, A Mama’s Story, What Joy Is Mine, Mom’s the Word,Mum Mondays, Missional Call, Manic Monday, Thoughtful Spot, Raising Homemakers, Wholehearted Home, My Daily Walk in His Grace, A Wise Woman, A Little R and R, We Are That Family, Ducks in a Row, The Life of Jennifer Dawn, My Disorganized Life, Cherished Bliss, Wow Me Wednesday, Lovely Ladies Linkup,  the Joy Dare Project, Time Warp Wife, Table for Seven, Titus 2 Tuesday, Joyful Mothering, Kathe with an E,  City Farmhouse, The Shady Porch, Turn it up Tuesday, Graced Simplicity, Thriving Thursday, Hearts for Home, Hope in Every Season, I Choose Joy, Jenni Mullinix, Growing in Grace, Katherine’s Corner, All Things with a Purpose, Mom on Demand,