Today at Faithlifts, Heather shared her hectic morning and how easy it is for her to lose her joy due to the business of life.
I know this feeling all too well. Unfortunately I've been born with (or acquired) a negativity gene. The glass is half empty syndrome. For me joy doesn't come naturally. I have to work at it. I have to remind myself to be joyful and count my blessings. Bottom line, I have to take my mind off myself and what I don't have and open my eyes to the blessings before me.
Discussion: How awesome would it be if today, in our daily life, our entire city could hear our rejoicing from far away! In what areas of your own life do you recognize lack of joy and thanksgiving? Is your heart joyful in the everyday mundane stuff?Confession time. I don't usually enjoy my children. I absolutely love and cherish them, but taking care of their needs drains the joy out of me.
Why I was granted four high-spirited, high-maintenance kids is a mystery? And I fear the answer may have more to do with God wanting to do a work in me, rather than Him believing I can handle them.
Walking in a spirit of joy is a daily challenge for me, but during the quiet, stress free times of parenting (usually minutes before my kids fall asleep) I can't help but marvel in the blessings of my children.
Grace's giggle and carefree spirit.On some days I have to search real hard to find the blessings of parenthood, other times it's right there in front of my face. All I have to do is slow down, let the dishes pile up and open my eyes to see it!
Timmy's affection and easy going temperament.
Joey's inquisitiveness and thoughtful heart.
Chris' compassion and musical talent.
5 comments:
Oh I understand from a different point of view. I have boys. BOYS. What was God thinking? ;) But He does reveal the mystery and blessings on some days, doesn't He?? I enjoyed reading this!!
I appreciate your honesty. Sometimes it's good to know that others struggle with many of the same issues you do as a parent. I have four kids also, and many times I feel like someone should have warned me what it would be like when they all passed the toddler stage. The stage they are in now is definitely harder for me, but I'm grateful for the support that I've received from all around in the past few months. In that I find joy.
I appreciate your honesty. Sometimes it's good to know that others struggle with many of the same issues you do as a parent. I have four kids also, and many times I feel like someone should have warned me what it would be like when they all passed the toddler stage. The stage they are in now is definitely harder for me, but I'm grateful for the support that I've received from all around in the past few months. In that I find joy.
I couldn't agree more! I also have 2 high maintenance children (boys no less), and some days are easier than others. I love them with all my heart, but sometimes instead of enjoying them for who they are, I'm stressed out because of who I'd like them to be (no quiet children at our house).
Your closing thoughts especially spoke to me. I have two very busy girls and some days I can see the blessings and other days I'm just too worn out to look. Your honest post spoke to my heart b/c there are days I feel the same way.
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