"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen ... practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:8-9I've been struggling with adjusting to all the changes in my life, especially in the last year. I've loved my job of being a "stay at home" wife and mom and all that's allowed me to do these past 20 years: homeschool, volunteer, and serve.
With both "kids' out of the house, declining economic climate and rising tuition/college expenses, I've been "thrust" back into the corporate workforce. To put it mildly, I'm still adjusting and have found myself grumbling...a lot...too much! I've been selfish and self-centered.
Philippians 4:8 has been a verse that I've memorized and prayed for the past several years, through some very tough trials, but I have overlooked verse 9 - PRACTICE these things. This is the hard part.
So here goes...I'm dwelling on the positive.This is where it has to start:
Lord,
Who am I, that you are mindful of me; that You hear me when I call?
Is it true that You are thinking of me? How you love ME!
Thank you for what is:
True - I have a vehicle that gets me where I need to go. It may be falling apart, unsightly, noisy, and need regular maintenance, but I have a husband who has the knowledge and inclination to keep our vehicles running.
Honorable - I have husband who is rigid about finances, keeping us out of debt.
Just & Pure - I have a husband who holds me accountable to glorify God with my words, attitude and action on a daily basis, reminding me (rebuking, if necessary) to have an attitude of gratitude.
Lovely & Commendable - My kids are working hard and doing well in their studies, displaying increasing personal responsibility.
Praiseworthy - Because of God's abundant provision through my job, we are able to help our children finance their college education, relieving them of the additional stress of starting out their independence with the burden of debt.
Thank you, Lord!
Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to you Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer!