James 1:2 “Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides…”
Summer is here, and along with it come lake days, beach trips, cookouts and endless other opportunities for fun and frivolity. Restaurant patios are packed, live bands are booked, and the longing to see friends grows ever stronger as the days grow longer. That longing has not escaped me, but as a mother of two young boys, my opportunities are very limited. For me, leave days are mostly used for illnesses or doctor’s appointments. Extra money is spent on groceries, new clothes for growing children, and summer sports programs. Let’s face it—the closest we ever get to the beach is the sandbox and water hose out back. And as usual, I have found myself wishing. Wishing for more free time, wondering why we can’t be at the lake, and hoping for a vacation soon. This is a dangerous place to be, and before I know it, my wishing turns into flat-out jealousy toward others. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in what we don’t have. Comparing ourselves to others is a deadly trap that is hard to avoid in a world of social media. If we aren’t careful, we can fall into a dark pit of discontentment, forgetting all that the Lord has blessed us with. The fact is, everything we are experiencing in our lives is a part of God’s plan. When times are tough, God still uses those moments for great good—even if we can’t see it. What if you prayed a little differently today? Instead of asking God to bless you with what you want, ask Him to bless you with wisdom. The ability to see the wonderful things He has placed in your everyday life. Don’t wish life away. Embrace it fully, and experience the joy that comes from being content in the Lord
– Melinda Smith
Summer is here, and along with it come lake days, beach trips, cookouts and endless other opportunities for fun and frivolity. Restaurant patios are packed, live bands are booked, and the longing to see friends grows ever stronger as the days grow longer. That longing has not escaped me, but as a mother of two young boys, my opportunities are very limited. For me, leave days are mostly used for illnesses or doctor’s appointments. Extra money is spent on groceries, new clothes for growing children, and summer sports programs. Let’s face it—the closest we ever get to the beach is the sandbox and water hose out back. And as usual, I have found myself wishing. Wishing for more free time, wondering why we can’t be at the lake, and hoping for a vacation soon. This is a dangerous place to be, and before I know it, my wishing turns into flat-out jealousy toward others. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in what we don’t have. Comparing ourselves to others is a deadly trap that is hard to avoid in a world of social media. If we aren’t careful, we can fall into a dark pit of discontentment, forgetting all that the Lord has blessed us with. The fact is, everything we are experiencing in our lives is a part of God’s plan. When times are tough, God still uses those moments for great good—even if we can’t see it. What if you prayed a little differently today? Instead of asking God to bless you with what you want, ask Him to bless you with wisdom. The ability to see the wonderful things He has placed in your everyday life. Don’t wish life away. Embrace it fully, and experience the joy that comes from being content in the Lord
– Melinda Smith