Being able to observe the small and big changes that happen with my son all day long. Sometimes, he learns how to use a toy in a different way. Sometimes, it's something huge like pulling himself to standing yesterday in the bathroom and using both hands to play with a comb...wasn't even steadying himself! I love the privilege of being a watchful observer each day, all day. So cool.
Yesterday, I posted about hope. Hope is an amazing spiritual characteristic to put into practice in our daily lives, and hope is a gift given from Him to shine a welcome light into situations that otherwise seem, well, hopeless. No matter what the circumstances may be...an absent father, a strained relationship, a phone call delivering bad news, a scary diagnosis, a less-than-ideal work/travel situation, an ill child, a defiant or difficult child...He is the author of our lives. None of these situations or circumstances surprise Him. Not in the least. Not only will He willingly give us as much as hope as we need and as we ask for, but He also gives us the strength to persevere. He has even given us knowledge and common sense to set the ball in motion, when our action is necessary.
Truly, God never needs our help. He is the Almighty who can do anything, anywhere, at anytime. He does, though, desire our willingness to be involved. Sometimes, I've learned, there is nothing we can do but hope, pray, and have faith that He will work all things according to His good. Remember Romans 8:28?
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."
But sometimes, God asks us to get up, brush ourselves off, and get busy. Working actively towards a change with the Lord doesn't negate our need for hope, but it does show Him that we are serious about making a difference in our current situation. Perhaps if you are hoping and praying that your finances will improve so that you may stay at home with your children, God is actually calling you to educate yourselves and come up with a plan, not just to wait. Maybe if you're waiting for your husband's job situation to improve, God is wanting you both to start seeking out other career opportunities or to lean on people who might be helpful in this area.
Have you ever heard that when God closes a door He opens a window? It's not scripture, but it is true, in my experience. You may never know if a door will close or a window will open if you don't at least step one foot outside. I wish I could remember who originally said this, and if you know, please comment, but a famous Christian speaker once said that too many Christians sit at red lights and wait for God to turn them green. Why not, instead, act like all lights are green and then wait for God to turn one red.
He is faithful to direct your path. His most useful tool is His Word.
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." Psalm 119:105
Whatever is troubling in your life, and mine, right now. Practice the power of hope, lean on His Word and direction, and then we should make a practical list of things that we can do today, tomorrow, and next week to improve the situation. Maybe God will put up a huge road block and point you another way. Okay! Bring it on! At least, we are being proactive.
Some days, you may feel that you don't have the strength to act, and all you can do is lean on Him. In the mommy world, that's not uncommon. You know what, that's not bad. That's wonderful. When that happens, we are admitting that we can't fix everything, and we do need Him in our lives. Often times, moms are so use to being in charge of the house, the kids, the schedule, the life, that we forget that we really can't do at all. We're totally exhausted and overwhelmed before we remember to admit it. But, because He is a merciful and loving God, full of grace, leaning on Him will renew us.
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:31
Today, I pray that all mommas, myself included, will choose one way to act that could potentially change a difficult situation that we are dealing with. It could be for yourself, your husband, your children, or it could effect your whole family. Pray for the courage necessary to do this, and see where He directs your steps. He never needs help, but He sure does love a partner.
Don't forget to check today's MMSM and Organizational Tip! Be blessed, mommies :-)
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