Grrr-Attitude

An attitude of gratitude.  We've heard that phrase before. In everything we have two choices, it's simply a choice of attitude.  It sounds so simple at times, but it often takes determination to have a an attitude of gratitude through certain seasons or "detours" in our life, in our walk with the Lord.
      It really is true that we do draw closer to Him, during those times which gives us the wisdom & strength to persevere through the next.  Physical and emotional detours can make it a bit harder but that's where perseverance & hope come into play.  I am finding that there is strength in knowing what those words mean, especially in relationship to my faith in Christ.
      This past month, I was lead to a wonderful author of Gratitude devotionals & books - Shelley Hitz. I am actually reading through a few of them at once.  As a Believer, it helps to see life from another perspective.
       So  why Grrr-Atitude ?   Some times we have to walk through the grrrrr - I don't like what's gong on to "I am blessed beyond measure" if we simply have a different perspective.  Not always easy but oh so much more beneficial.


Be joyful always;  pray continually;  give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.  I Thessalonians 5:16-18

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.  Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.  Colossians 3:15-17


You can check out Shelley's books here:Shelley Hitz


Image: drchristianhibbert

The D Word(s)

This post has been on the back burner for awhile.  As you read, you will clearly know why.  Originally, the title of the post was to be Discipline, which usually brings the thought of children to mind. I've been reading some things about being better Disciplined as the Lord revealed to me that being organized is not the same as being Disciplined.  
     The next thing was to understand that my lack of Discipline seems to be due mainly to being so easily Distracted, which makes it hard to be Disciplined when you are Distracted....  are you following me on this ???  My first step was to "organize" a notebook (I can hear some of you already snickering) to help keep my focus on being Disciplined.  On the front cover:  More Discipline ~ Less Distraction.
     The Lord brings some wonderful thoughts & revelations in my own life to blog about, but I tend to get Distracted with something else, whether it is important or just a time waster.  Yes, I need to relax and enJOY  down time, but I know in my heart that I waste more time than I should.  Because of some other things in my life that I am sorting through, the Distractions seem persistent & the Discipline seems elusive.
     Let's not forget two other D words - the devil who is the great Deceiver.   It is his intention to keep Christians Distracted by bombarding us - even with important issues: sanctity of marriage, sanctity of Life, ungodly leadership throughout our nation, loss of purity & morality in our society, struggling to raise children with a knowledge of God ....
     In the midst of it all, those of us who feel the "need" to give to every cause, save the world, who never do enough for the Lord will get Distracted, becoming over-whelmed, sometimes losing hope & the assurance of God's peace.
     Keep in mind that we need to begin with habitual acts of faithfulness/Discipline.  It's not what we Do every now & then, but what we Do everyday, that changes everything.  Find 10 minutes of stillness everyday - no cancellations.  Be still & cease striving.
     Where do we turn ?  To the only place we can be released from our Distractions - God's Word.  When He is our focus, the Discipline will follow.
       Commit to the Lord whatever you do & your plans will succeed. Proverbs 16:3
       Delight yourself in the Lord & He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord. Trust also in Him, and He will do it.       Psalm 37:4,5

Here is a great book (also e-book) that encouraged me Do What You Can Plan by Holly Gerth.  A quick & encouraging read.  Blessings.