Mommy's Daily Devotions: Promise Of Good Things

God promises good things to come despite our trials when we praise Him and are thankful while going through such disasters or hard times. He says: "count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience" (James 1:2-3). Oh my, who can't use a bit more patience, especially as a mother and parent? I know I need to pray for mine often.

Maybe your trials consist of removing paint from the walls that your child or children decided to add for you, or vomit from a sick baby, potty training messes and accidents... Or maybe it's a health issue, job issue or the lack thereof, a learning disorder with the kids or a tense marriage and financial stress. Oh boy, does the list go on.

With this economy in its current state and many people and families in difficult financial strains or situations, it is nice to remember God's promises, His plans and future for us who love Him. So, if you are just exhausted in your journey as a mother and needing a glimpse of hope, God is for you not against you. He is present in your comings and goings and wants to fellowship with you deeply. He also loves you and knows everything about you. Having said that, He also wants us to be tested at times. When we can be tested and praise Him even-still, what a strength that becomes for Him and for us. Don't lose hope during those times of testing; knowing God truly wants the best for you.

Reflection: What an awesome God we serve. His love is truly amazing. His sacrifice life giving to all who accept Him. When you catch yourself trying to figure out what you should do next in the midst of disaster or trials, make sure to reach up and out with your words of surrender, asking God to intervene. Then you can wait and watch as He moves in for you in ways you couldn't have imagined.

Prayer: All powerful and wonderful Jesus, teach us to praise you through the storms that life seems to drown us with at times. Help us to keep our faith in you and to hold strong while faced with various temptations and trials. In such times, help our families to grow stronger and closer and to be more focused for you. I thank you that although temptations come, you always give a way of escape. Help us rest assured in the promise of good things to come and in your deep love for us all.

Okay, kind of a tangent coming: The above picture reminds me of the joy that our kids have when getting ready to paint, all messy and colorful... they can't seem to want to wait to see what the future holds, especially the future mess. They seem to trust that it is good and they can't wait to get their hands dirty and into their artwork and finger or hand paints. In the same way, we can see our messes as opportunities to become more like Christ and more patient. It all depends on our perspective.