August 22, 2022
As my usual practice, I have set my timer to write for 15 minutes for this blog post. I usually write for 15 minutes at a time as this seems to be a good amount of time that my mind can really focus. Quite frankly I do not have a great blog post planned or even prepared for this week. Normally, I think of a concept weeks in advance and then begin writing. The week before a post goes up I edit and put the finishing touches on it, and then the post is ready to go by Friday.
But here I sit at my computer attempting to write a post that should be posted today. I think God is gently reminding me what my priorities should be at this stage in my life, and right now my priorities are my relationship with God and my family. Any extras like working on my business are just that…extra.
To me working on my business is satisfying and relaxing and honestly something I hope to turn into a financial benefit to my family. Yet the last few weeks God has slowed me down in various ways and reminded me to rest and wait for Him.
I have tried to be more intentional in spending time with my children and engaging with them. Recently I read a quote that stated no one can take a mother’s unique place in her home. How true this is! I can attempt to write the best blog posts, write the most beautiful music, film a lovely YouTube video, YET if I neglect my opportunities as a mother, I am a failure. Someone else out there will continue writing and creating beautiful content, yet if I neglect my own children, no one will take up for my slack.
Life is all about relationships, and I must not neglect the most special relationship in my life, the one with my Heavenly Father.
I have a little notebook that I write down Bible verses about God, and last night I read a page in my notebook entitled “My God wants to fellowship with me.” Here are the verses I read:
How astounding that the God of the universe wants to fellowship with me! God desires to come into my heart and life and dine with me. He calls for me to come to Him!
Where do you turn in times of frustration? Fear? Depression? Anger? Disappointment? Run to God. He is calling to you, and He longs to fellowship with you.
I used to think that God did not want to hear my complaining and whining, so I neglected praying to God and telling Him all the things that scared me, bothered me, annoyed me, or hurt me. Yet God longs to hear from me. Yes, I need to come in a humble spirit, not a griping attitude that just throws an angry fist at God.
Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
God wants me and even commands me to bring my burdens to Him. God wants me to share my requests with Him and then spend time praising Him (even and especially when I don’t feel like it!).
How are you doing today, friend? If you are like me, Mondays can be hard sometimes. Emotions can be rampant. But don’t live by your feelings. Run to the One Who loves you and can help you in every circumstance!
With much love,
Ashley
P.S. If you find this blog helpful and encouraging, will you share it with a friend? I desire for this blog to grow organically by word-of-mouth, not relying heavily on social media.
This Longaberger basket is one of my treasures from Goodwill. This little beauty makes me smile, especially since it was only $1.89!
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