I will have to admit that this past weekend was a struggle. A rather large unexpected expense came up while we were out-of-town, which left a thorn in my side. I tried not to worry about it, I tried not to complain about it, and I tried not to be frustrated, upset,or angry. I know in Philippians 4:12 that the Lord commands us to do all things without murmurings and disputings. So, why was I murmuring so much?

(Look at how much fun they were having!)

I was focusing on the ugly moment at hand.  I was focusing on the world.  I was focusing on everything that was not important! I was trying to focus on praising the Lord for keeping us safe when our new “quite a bit used” vehicle broke down miles from home.  I was trying to praise Him. But, I just did not feel like being happy, cheerful, and okay with the situation. I tried to hide my gloominess throughout the day (probably not as well as I should have). But, after reading Philippians 4:4-6 with the kids at breakfast this morning, I realized that I cannot praise the Lord and find peace in Him with resentment in my heart! It. Is. Not. Possible.

(They were not gloomy, unhappy, or bitter at all!  They were lovin’ it.)

Yes, the little bit of money that I thought the Lord had provided for Christmas is now gone plus more.  But. It. Is. Okay! Do you know why? Let me count the ways. I had wonderful Christian family members and friends encouraging me the whole weekend.  I had four beautiful children and an awesome husband who smiled despite it all. (They handle negative situations so gracefully!) The sun was warm and beautiful, which was such a blessing since we were outside enjoying an amusement park on Saturday (thanks to my mom and step-dad!).  Despite money being tighter than usual, we will have food on our table and a warm house to live in the entire month of December. The Lord always provides for our needs. And, the vehicle that really means nothing in the long view of things, can be fixed and should last us for many years to come. And if it doesn’t: It. Is. Okay!!  A vehicle is a luxury in my book. It is a worldly possession that will eventually rust and crumble to the ground. I am so glad that I don’t have to find my joy in worldly things!  I am so glad the Lord reminded me where my faith belongs this weekend.

So, today I say thank you Lord for protecting us.  Thank you for sending the right people to encourage us. Thank you for making me understand that the Christmas gifts do not matter. Thank you for reminding me that you are the reason we celebrate Christmas.  You are our gift.  Thank you for helping me teach my children the true meaning of Christmas.  Thank you for taking away my bitter heart.  I love you, I love you, I love you!! You are good all the time.

Philippians 4:4-7

⁴ Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.

⁵ Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

⁶ Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

⁷ And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

(The notes that Jaden snuck and wrote this morning while we were making an ornament to go along with a book we had read. Another reminder that there is joy in every situation and what prompted me to write this post.  I hope you all have a great week, and let’s rejoice in the Lord together!)