Pastor Shawn talked about reacting to adversity on Sunday. He said people fit into 2 categories; complainers and worshippers. Paul worshipped in prison with his ankles shackled. Reading a Karen Kingsbury novel last night, she sited Stephen who was lied about and falsely accused having 'the face of an angel.'
Boy does God have to smack me over the head to open my eyes to who I am and how I behave. This week at school has been the most trying of the year. What was my response to this professional adversity. Whining and complaining, pouting and sniveling to anyone who would listen was my shameful response. Of course, I dug my own hole since my students react to my mood and then act accordingly.
Last night after a quick call to Shawn to grumble, I prayed for a worshipping spirit instead of a bratty 2 year old one. When life is hard I need to pray first not as a last resort. How old do I need to be before I turn to what will help me instead of hurt me?
So as you might guess, today was a much better day. My students had a great day, all the drama that was overwhelming during my tantrum smoothed out like sheets on a well made bed. The next few weeks with the holiday season approaching will undoubtedly be more stressful in my class, but how I handle it needs to be positive. My response is what I can control. Turning to Him and relying on Him is what I can choose.
In Him,
Joyful
11-30-2011
11-30-2011
What a wonderful witness to the power of prayer and the grace that goes to those who ask. I am sure those kiddos are so worked up they can hardly contain themselves.
ReplyDeleteQMM
I saw you as being r.e.a.l. Not sniveling. And you are worshipful nearly all the time. You're an amazing woman.
ReplyDeleteHi there, I loved this because it is so easy in our flesh to whine and stomp our feet but so much sweeter to lift our voices in praises.
ReplyDeleteSo glad you had a better day today. He loves to hear our praises even when life is going bad. It also changes my heart attitude for the better.
Hugs tonight.
Noreen