Devotions by Barb -- November 17, 2025

In this space, I am sharing devotions written by our dear Barbara Meade.

Barbara grew up a Quaker and is a regular attendee at Spiceland Friends Church. Her faith and Quaker roots go deep as her uncle was a Quaker pastor, evangelist, and artist. Barb's writings about her many life experiences reveal her faith in Christ and highlight the memories of a great family, her years in the banking industry, and her time as a local small business owner. Barb's desire is to serve those around her through her encouraging devotionals and writings from her life. Barb has recognized that our relationship with Christ grows throughout our lives, both in good times and through life's challenges.

Count Your Blessings

Dolly Parton once said, “I spent my life building a world of glitter and gold, only to realize the true treasures have been here in these silent mountains.” She spoke those words while standing inside the humble cabin where she was born—a simple place filled with the memories that shaped her.

Her reflection reminds us of something we often forget: the richest parts of life are usually right in front of us. We chase what sparkles, compare ourselves to others, and assume the “wealthy” are those with more land, more money, or more success. But how many people, feeling poor in material things, are quietly carrying the greatest treasure of all?

Back in 1897, Johnson Oatman wrote the hymn “Count Your Blessings.” Its refrain still speaks to every generation:

Count your blessings, name them one by one;

Count your many blessings, see what God has done.

And then the gentle reminder:

When you look at others with their land and gold,

Think what Christ has promised you—His wealth untold.

Scripture echoes that truth:

“In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus.”

— 1 Thessalonians 5:18

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.”

— Ephesians 1:3

There are blessings God gives that no amount of money can buy—peace, salvation, hope, purpose, and the steady assurance of His presence. Dolly found that realization in a mountain cabin. We can find it in our own backyards, our own families, our own quiet moments with God.

True wealth isn’t counted in dollars. It’s counted in gratitude.

Amen.

Eric is our associate pastor, working with outreach and youth ministry as well as adult discipleship and growth. Eric retired from a 28-year career in public education as a high school band director in 2019 and is now living his lifelong dream as a pastor. Eric and his wife, Diana, continue to live in Henry County where they have been lifetime residents. They "raised" three children and are now making their best attempt at "raising" themselves.