Recognition vs. Love

I am a people pleaser.  I have always wanted to impress people and for people to like me and be proud of me and say nice things about me.  That's just who I am.  It comes from a sense of feeling that my parents were never proud of me so I have always striven to please others.  I am one of those people that get pleasure out the words "thank you," "good job," or "we appreciate you."  It truly blesses me.

However, I have come to know something greater. I have come to know that my works don't impress God and to instead by blessed by his grace and mercy.  I am so blessed that I can serve him - he gives me the ability to do that.  I strive now to do things out of love and not for recognition.  It is simply amazing to me that he loves me - me who constantly disappoints him, me out of all the people in the world, me insignificant me.  He loved me enough to die for me.  So, you see, that love beats all the "thank you's," "atta girl," and all the pats on the back man could ever give me.

And that love, the knowledge of this very special, unmatched, unsurpassed love, is what can get me through anything.  So bring it on world, bring it on Devil, bring it on whoever.  I have victory through Jesus Christ.  He loves me and nothing can separate me from that.

Putting my money where my mouth is

I've been a Dave Ramsey fan for a long time.  I went through his series of classes, bought the book, listen to the podcasts, everything.  But somehow, after I cut up the credit cards all those years ago and almost got out of debt, I somehow have all those cards back in my wallet again and I'm knee deep in debt.  $70,000 or so with student loans....

I've got to do this and will do this.  I can do all things thru Christ who strengthens me.  So, tomorrow, the credit cards are going in the shredder.  The fast food is stopping.  This is hard right before Christmas.  However, I've been pinning "frugal" tips and home made Christmas gifts.  I can do this.   I will emerge VICTORIOUS!!!!

Victory

Often times when we are going through something, it can be hard to see the end.  However, there is an end and at that end is Victory.  I'm talking about spiritual struggles here.  I can sense victory up ahead and that gives me joy in the struggle.  Lord, I thank you for the opportunity to humble myself and carry this burden for you.  I lay it at your feet and I proclaim your Word that You are able to do exceedingly and abundantly for those who believe   Lord, I believe that this struggle in in your plan for us and that great things will come out of it.  I thank you for the victory that lies ahead.  I praise you Lord, for your Glory and Honor!!!  In Jesus name, I pray, Amen...  Keep your head up and your eyes on him, my friends!!!!