“Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.” Romans 8:5-6
I recently wrote about living out each day with the end in mind. This thought has truly been present each and every day in a way it never has before. This once seemed a depressing way to begin each day, and I must confess, I had to give up my ideas of how I thought my life should go. The realization that I cannot control my future is finally becoming a way of life rather than just a knowledge. Of course, I still grasp for control and want my way quite often; however, the idea that life as I know it may change in an instant, is giving me a new appreciation for each moment in my day.
The business of cleaning my home, feeding my kids, and answering one more question feels a bit more like a privilege than in previous times. Waking up hourly in the night with a baby seems like such a tiny sacrifice for the great blessing in my arms. The world may be going crazy and the headlines may be scary, but I still think these days may just be my favorite time of life so far.
I’ve always thought I was fairly grateful for what I have, but oh how foolish I have been! I mourn the days I wasted wishing my life was a little easier. I’m sickened when I think of the blessings God gave me, and I was too busy complaining about minor inconveniences in my life to notice. Those “rough” moments turned out to be God’s great mercy on me. I can just imagine God patiently watching me, waiting for me to learn my lesson, while He withholds His punishment for my sour attitude.
Nothing will jerk your mind onto eternity like knowing your end may be near. When I consider this, one thought always precedes… will I see my family in heaven one day? I want to know that my kids are forging their own vibrant relationships with God so that they will be able to face any situation and stand strong. I pray they will lead many others to Christ and bring much glory to Him by their obedience to Him.
A new pressing desire to encourage others in their personal relationships with the Lord is also in my heart. I pray the Lord allows me to love others like He does so that I won’t be afraid to speak hard truths to them- even if they reject them. In turn, I want others to speak the same to me.
God is so incredibly patient and merciful! “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9
“I know that nothing is better for them than to rejoice, and to do good in their lives, and also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labor—it is the gift of God.” Ecclesiastes 3:12-13
Father, help me to enjoy each blessing You have granted me. Open my eyes that I may see the privileges You afford me each and every day. May I not try to control my life in an unhealthy way but rather live in the knowledge that You are orchestrating everything in my favor. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.