Mike’s Forum Post: A Picnic Blessed by God

Yesterday was one of those days that reminded me just how good God is and how much I often take the little things for granted. I was able to take the day off from work, and instead of rushing around with meetings, deadlines, and all the noise that comes with the daily grind, I was able to step away and spend uninterrupted time with the people who matter most—my family.

We decided to pack a simple picnic basket and head out to the park. Nothing extravagant, nothing fancy. Just sandwiches, fresh fruit, some lemonade, and a few snacks for the kids. But what turned out to be a small idea became one of the most refreshing, soul-filling days I’ve had in a long time.

As we spread the blanket on the grass and sat down, I couldn’t help but pause and look around. The weather was perfect—not too hot, not too cold, with a gentle breeze swaying the trees. My wife smiled as she passed out plates, the kids laughed while running barefoot on the grass, and the air was filled with the kind of peace that only God can orchestrate. It struck me in that moment that this wasn’t just another family outing. This was a reminder from the Lord about the importance of rest, gratitude, and cherishing what He has already placed in my life.

So often we pray for blessings that are far ahead of us—bigger homes, better jobs, more money, greater opportunities—and while those prayers aren’t wrong, we forget that the very breath in our lungs, the family sitting across from us, and the food on our table are already answered prayers. The picnic reminded me that contentment is not found in acquiring more but in recognizing what God has already provided.

I thought about Psalm 23, where David says, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” That verse hit me in a new way as I watched my kids chasing one another, their laughter echoing through the park. At that moment, I truly lacked nothing. I wasn’t thinking about bills, projects, or the stress waiting for me at work tomorrow. I was thinking about how blessed I am to even have a family, to have the health to sit with them outside, and the freedom to enjoy a day in the sunshine.

My wife caught me staring off and asked what I was thinking about. I told her, “I’m just realizing how rich we already are.” And it’s true. Richness isn’t only measured in dollars—it’s measured in peace, joy, love, and the presence of God in our lives. Yesterday’s picnic was proof that God can take something simple and make it sacred.

As the day went on, we prayed together, thanking God for giving us this opportunity to slow down. We talked about our dreams and hopes, but also about how grateful we were for today. That’s when I realized: we can chase after the future, but if we never pause to thank Him for the present, we’ll always feel empty.

So, I just want to encourage anyone reading this—don’t overlook the small blessings. A meal with your loved ones, the laughter of your children, the smile of your spouse—those are priceless gifts that no paycheck can buy. Take time to sit with your family, breathe in God’s creation, and remember that He is always with you.

Yesterday was more than just a picnic. It was a sermon from God without a pulpit, a gentle reminder that His presence isn’t only found in a church building but in the grass beneath our feet, the sky above us, and the people He has entrusted to our care. Truly, I am blessed.