The encouraging words from a friend can bring perspective and direct one's eyes upwards again where motivation is renewed to fight the good fight!
(100)This last week I called my mom to complain about my youngest son. He is into EVERYTHING, has no fear and I can't afford to blink... There was laughter and empathy (Trey is a mini-me), but then encouragement to stay on course, be consistent and, well, buck-up.
She could have criticized me or pointed out how selfish I was, but instead she inspired me to pursue what is right, even when it is difficult. She listened to me, but did not feed my complaining. I calmed down and could hear that Still Small Voice encouraging me, reminding me that my strength comes from Him and that He has called me to the glorious (and sometimes exhausting) task at hand.
So I continue to throw off the weight and sin that clings so closely. I don't dwell on it, but instead look to Jesus and think on "whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable." (Phil 4:8) and I learn to rejoice in all of the ways He is at work in my life...
And so my list of gratitude continues...
101. a hubby who takes the kids to the park so I can clean.
102. a quiet hour to clean like a madwoman and enjoy communion with God in the process. For me, busy hands make for a quiet heart!
103. a prickly-pear margarita shared with hubby.
104. an Opa that takes two bigger boys on a Davey Crockett adventure and a sister who takes "the handful" so hubby and I can have an evening out!
105. friends who come alongside me and pray with me and encourage me!
106. an aunt who is doing incredibly well more than a month after being given only a month to live.
107. cuddle moments with my oldest, while he shares about what God is talking to him about.
108. rainy day hikes with my boys!
109. special looks from hubby that STILL make me weak in the knees.
110. time away from my computer on Thursdays and Sundays. I am a more attentive child of God, mother and wife because of it.
111. small answers to long-time prayers... In faith for more! God is at work and it is exciting!
Thank you for this post. What an encouragement to me and what an opportunity to praise God!
ReplyDeleteAhhhh Sweetie! You are an amazing mom. And Trey is such a delight - a handful, but a delight. He will be fearless for the Lord, just as you were and still are!
ReplyDeletelove,
Mom