Mom Heart Moments #32

Surely I have composed and quieted my soul; like a weaned child rests against his mother, my soul is like a weaned child within me.

COME FEBRUARY, many of us have decided resolutions are for the birds. We’ve already failed to eat only whole grains, drink enough water, or exercise thirty minutes every day.

Many years ago, when I had hit my own wall during a particularly draining time, I looked at my life and thought, How am I still doing this? No one knows how hard my life is. I’m still waiting on answers to prayer, hoping for people in my life to change, wishing my life would get a little easier. I have friends who are leaving their ideals behind because they’re just worn out. Can I go on?

As I sat on the bench that day, a sudden movement caught my eye. In the center of the square where I was reflecting, a young boy was dancing. His head was back, his arms were spread, and he was twirling in utter abandon. The look on his face was priceless —he was so full of joy! Unaware of anyone else, he danced among the falling leaves, perfectly happy. Then I heard the Lord speak to my heart and say, “That’s what I want for you. I want you to be like a child. I don’t want you to bear the burdens of your life. I want you to live a life of joy.”

So the question becomes, what do we need to do so we won’t lose our ideals —so we won’t arrive gasping at the gates of heaven?

Godliness, wisdom, graciousness, joyfulness . . . these are qualities we want to have, and they don’t happen by accident! They must be cultivated intentionally. We must develop habits that will help us build a foundation in our own lives to receive and experience and pass along His grace to others.

Where might the Lord help you find room for more joy, so His grace can flow to and through you?