Another Day

It had been a very rough day.  Ministry had turned to politics, relationships had gone sour, miles and miles of traveling had netted few, if any positive results. Even pulling into the driveway at home, evidence of turmoil surrounded the scene...a water hose spewing its contents on soggy ground, kids screaming at each other, the back door left open providing high-cost heating to the 40 degree day and the open refrigerator doing the opposite in the kitchen, on the floor a solid reminder of our new four-legged family member, and almost every light in the house burning brightly. Not exactly the day I had hope for, but at least it's almost over!  In my mind I declared, "God, I'll give you thanks as soon as I can find something to be thankful for."

Maneuvering my way to the den, I dive backwards into my recliner, turn-up the gas logs and the TV and immerse myself in the closing moments of a vintage episode of "Walker, Texas Ranger."  Then it hits me. As I watch Walker kung fu his way through 5 or 6 villains and then run to the waiting arms of his sweetheart, I discover two things...I am thankful that I am not on the receiving end of his powerful blows, and, that when the battles of my day are over, I can run to the waiting arms of Him who not only is waiting for me, but has been guiding my footsteps all day.

I have survived another day. Safe in the comfort of my home, I am thankful...very thankful for His presence. Weariness leads to a brief pre-supper nap (after all, I've seen this episode before).  I awake a little refreshed.  I lean my head back, looking skyward and say, "Thank you, Lord for your love and mercy. And thank you, Lord, that tomorrow I get to do it all over again."

Lamentations 3:22-23  (KJV)

Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.
23 

Keeping Life Simple

To many, the title is a misnomer.  How can life be simple?  The question is sometimes difficult to answer.  Let’s describe a typical day for an average young couple. 

Wake up, shower, prepare breakfast, get the kids ready for school, leave for work, pick up the kids, take them to various rehearsals and athletic practices, stop at the grocery store, cook supper (eat at different times and places in the house), wash dishes, do homework, clean kitchen and house, make the beds, wash clothes, fold the towels, watch the 11:00 news, go to bed!  And each of these daily tasks carries its own set of procedures and protocols.

So how do we simplify our lives?  First of all, understand the importance of all that you do, but find time to include the exercise of quiet.  Down time, alone time, me time, time out…whatever you choose to call it, make sure your day has several periods when the world is locked out, and it is just you, your thoughts, and your God.  Remember, the strength you have to live as you do comes from Him.  His desire is to refresh you often as you seek Him and His guidance.  In these moments, express your thankfulness to Him for strength, health, family and your God-man relationship.  You will return to the daily grind with a relaxed, more simple outlook on life.

Psalm 46:10  "Be still and know that I am God..."