Sunday Thoughts

For a person who is not feeling well, is in pain, or is dealing with any kind of hardship, there can be some very difficult days where you have a hard time keeping your eyes on the Lord and not on your circumstances. I've noticed this especially since I've had this knee operation that turned into a cut artery that turned into an 18" bypass. Many of you know about this, but I wanted to share my circumstances for any new readers out there. Add in the fact that my sweet little Yorkie is dying of cancer and you have the perfect formula for wanting to focus on the negative.

I'll be honest, I've had some really horrible days. Days where I've ranted and raved about what is happening. Questioning the why of it all. My very patient husband has listened but then gently reminds me that the Lord loves me, is in control, and has always blessed us beyond measure. I'm so thankful for this man who keeps me grounded in the Word and helps me to focus on what the reality is. The heavenly reality - not the earthly reality.

The things of this earth will pass away. The Lord tells us,

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6:19-21

Instead of focusing on all that has happened to me and is happening now, I have to spend time in God's Word. When I don't, I become angry and too focused on this earthly stuff. Yes, it's horrible what happened to me and it's horrible what's happening to my sweet Holly. However, when I put it into perspective of the horribleness that my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, went through when they ridiculed him, beat him, and then nailed him to the cross, it doesn't compare. He went willingly, for me and for you, to give us eternal life so we can share in the heavenly blessings when Jesus comes back for us in the Resurrection. 

If you're going through a hard time, like me, I encourage you to keep a journal where you can vent (or if you have a patient family member, share your feelings with them) and then get right back into the Word of God. It's the only thing that will calm your heart and comfort your emotions.

God bless you on this precious Lord's day!!

Blessings - Julie