Day Thirty-One

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

The most terrifying thing is to accept oneself completely. -- Carl Jung

A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort. -- Herm Albright

So often we focus on the things that are going wrong in our lives. The things from our pasts that we should have done differently. The "in between" that we wish would hurry up and produce something. We don't appreciative where we are at this moment because it may be uncomfortable. We're ready for the next thing. We view risks, ventures as a failure if we didn't receive the "success" we were looking for. 

Today I'd like to put forth a challenge for us. I say "us" because I need to be reminded to do this as well. Plus, we are on this journey of life together.

I want to challenge us today, to look at the things we are doing right. The good decisions we have made. Tonight when you get home from work or time with your kiddos or just are able to find a quiet space -- take a moment or two to exam your day. 

What are at least five things? Five things that your did that were healthy. Five things that you did that were positive. Five things that you did that were beautiful or encouraged someone else. Five choices that you made that would have gotten you a "check plus"and not a negative. You can pick any of these to make at least five.

We need to take some time to change around our thinking. We need to set aside a moment or two in our days to love and congratulate ourselves for being healthy and right, courageous. From the simple to the more complex.

The Bible says we are able to walk boldly into God's presence. We are called to be strong and courageous. We are pure and holy, filled with the fullness of his love.

He loves us so much.

We need to take some time out to purposefully love ourselves and realize the positive things we are doing in our lives, that maybe we haven't always done.

It will make a difference.

It will change the way you look at yourself and your life.

It will help you begin to see the person God loves, when you look in the mirror.

It will allow you to see growth you never could have dreamed.

Love yourself.

Congratulate yourself.

Find joy in the things you are doing that are positive.

Smile a little brighter.

You're doing the best you can, let God do the rest. 

Photo by dotbenjamin