Day 16

You can breathe. We are counting the days till Christmas, the journey is getting more difficult to climb—but our joy is not in our success or in a perfect day. Our joy is never a result of ourselves or our happenings—it is a choice. A choice to let God rule. 

"Glory to the newborn King!"

The journal continues...

For the first time I have had small victories. Lest pride overtake me—I must remind myself that all my self-efforts were futile. To God be the glory—'this poor [woman] cried, and the Lord heard [her].'

'For it is God who works in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.' Philippians 2:13

I see so clearly now that my negative spirit is much more powerful to destroy my children than any poor movie or weak friend ever could. In fact, I see that a joyful spirit—one that shows respect to my husband and his choices (good or bad) and that is submissive to God—will overshadow so much of the evil that this world throws at my children.

Words may be forgotten, principles ignored, but my spirit will remain in their little hearts forever.

My Dare:

To see the beauty in an imperfect day and to be doubly thankful to God for the things that do work out. To trust that good or bad, great or okay, God knows best—this is the day He has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it (Psalm 118:24). Joy is always the better choice and it somehow makes the disappointments to be quickly forgotten.

This is the last weekend before Christmas, and you probably have a long list of events and preparations. If you have a little energy left, join back with me on Monday—bring your pillow and blanket (my children cheer for cozy Bible time!)—as we learn some good, old-fashioned, practical advice that will help us regain some strength for the busy week ahead!