It's February, so why am I posting a blog that sounds like it should be in November? God has been speaking to my heart for a couple of years (yes, years) about something, and I was reminded today in my time in the Word about how close he is keeping this to my heart. Here is the passage that jumped out at me today:
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
I have not endured in my life anything remarkably tragic. I have not experienced the loss of a parent, close friend or even grandparent to date. I have experienced heartache in various forms, and hard times. I am reminded though today as things creep up, whether they be personal trials or ministry challenges, that I am to be joyful, praying and giving thanks in all things.
Daily I seem to gain perspective on this, and I believe it is just a lesson God is teaching me. It started a couple of years ago when a close friend experienced a very difficult time in their family; the diagnosis of illness in their mother that would mean long term hospitalization and a grim outlook on her future health. At the same time Jason was laid off from a job and we experienced some very challenging financial circumstances. Through this situation with our friend, God showed me how minor our financial issues were; and completely changed my perspective on life and thankfulness.
Small lessons along the way have kept this lesson in front of me. Currently, I am following the story of a "friend of a friend" on Facebook that has a baby the same age as Norah. Hospitalization, procedures, heart wrenching circumstances...and I look every day at the face of my very healthy, happy 10 month old Norah Grace and am so thankful. It heightens my awareness daily that anything that I face could be much worse; and most of what I feel anxiety over will be forgotten within the week or month. It has caused me to pray for others whether I know them or not; and to be thankful for all things in my own life.
These lessons that God is teaching me, I believe are something that have changed my outlook on life forever. It changes the way I see my family and ministry. Today I was just reminded through scripture, and felt like sharing with my friends. :)
