“Instead of running away from challenges, embrace them, eager to gain all the blessings I have hidden in the difficulties. Don’t waste energy regretting the way things are or thinking about what might have been [or thinking life is unfair.] Start at the present moment – accepting things exactly as they are – and search for My way in the midst of those circumstances.”
Sarah YoungJesus Calling
I can’t begin to tell you how important this is; or how much I count on this promise of His blessings. There are times – each and every day – when I find myself eyeing the path of self-centeredness and pity. And if I allow it to open before me, there is no end to the reasons I can find for feeling sorry for myself. (I rarely have trouble with that particular list.) But it is a path that leads nowhere and I know that.
As Sarah Young writes, each day begins with the “present moment”. How it unfolds from there is up to me. Each step – forward or backward - is a decision of mine manifested.
I believe I will refill my cup and look for the blessings of the day ahead. Life can be good despite its ever present challenges! He has promised!
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Oh yes! It is all about attitude. Have a blessed Sunday, Sandy!
ReplyDeleteIsn't it true, Sandy?? Years ago I heard a phrase that has stayed with me: Faith in the day.
ReplyDeleteIf we start off in faith that the day will be a good one, it will. We have to have that faith in the midst of tough times and sometimes, well, it is hard to do so. My favorite scripture is: Weeping endureth for a night; joy comes in the morning. It reminds me that it is okay to grieve and be sad, but that I will come out of it. Slowly, perhaps, but I will. William Wordsworth's "Surprised by Joy" reflects that same feeling -- that he was surprised to discover joy in a time of deep sorrow.
Hang in there, gal, and do something fun and wonderful today!
Sometimes we can be hard on ourselves and label our deepest sorrow and grief as having a pity party - when that truly is not the case. The more we try to 'stuff' our grief, the more it will make itself known in our body in other ways. Grief often comes in waves and I've found that I need to ride it, let it happen, and the Lord will guide me through it. Blessings!
ReplyDeleteWord verification is: grown - not groan!