A Fresh Outlook

Thank me for the difficulties in your life, since they provide protection from the idolatry of self-reliance.  

-Sarah Young in Jesus Calling

A few days ago, I reflected on my day and realized that I needed to change my attitude.  The negative aspects of my day began to overwhelm me and became my focus point.  I couldn't see past them.  So I asked Jesus to intervene and create in me a new, clean heart and outlook on life.

The next morning I woke up with the desire to set my mind on the blessings and to see the trials as something to be thankful for, gifts.  I decided to write down as many gifts as I could, beginning by focusing on the small things.  The things I had been overlooking...

449. Waking up to find that a good night's rest was exactly what my migraine needed to disappear.  I feel like a new person!

450. A freshly vacuumed house at the start of a new day

451. Her occasional whining and disobedience which spur me on to discover her heart on a deeper level so I am able to appropriately guide her and teach her how to make the right decisions.  A reminder of sin and our desperate need for a Savior.

452. A bright blue bird landing on top of the Dogwood tree we planted the spring after Addison was born

453. Updating picture frames

454. Going to pick blueberries for the third time this summer, but discovering they are now closed for the season.  To ease Addison's disappointment she got to ride on a tractor for the first time.

455.  Her smile and giggle while swinging at the playground

456.  Her undeniable pride as she climbed all the way up the steps to the slide, sat down, and went down the slide all by her big girl self!

457. I told her Mommy needed a hug.  She responded with a hug and a kiss.

460. Clouds - making a hot day a little more bearable.

463. A perfectly ripe Georgia peach

465. When we are in a grocery store she will look up at me with sad eyes and say "hold me" in her pouty voice.  I give her my arm and she quickly wraps both of her little arms tightly around mine while leaning her head against my arm.  I love being all that she needs.

466. She often times says "welcome" before I even get a chance to say "thank you!"

467. A quiet evening

468. Reassurance that My Hero is safe every time he calls while he is working.

469. Missing him so much

--------------------------------------------------------------------

God showed up in a way that day that I hadn't allowed Him to in days past.  My mind felt clear and full of joy.  I am sure I was much more pleasant to be around, and I was not the only one who benefitted.  I am so thankful we serve a God who desires us and answers us when we call.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

And then I read this the following morning in Sarah Young's devotional book, Jesus Calling, (from Jesus' perspective):

Thank Me for your problems.  As soon as your mind get snagged on a difficulty, bring it to Me with thanksgiving.  Then ask Me to show you My way to handle the situation, either facing it head-on or putting it aside for later consideration.

Most of the situations that entangle your mind are not today's concerns; you have borrowed them from tomorrow.  In this case, I lift the problem out of today and deposit it in the future, where it is veiled from your eyes.  In its place I give you My Peace, which flows freely from My Presence. 

Ephesians 5:20 - "...always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."