I so needed these words from Jesus Calling last night. I had been majorly busy all day, ironically, with church “stuff”, 6:30, 8:30, 1:30, when our sweet daughter-in-love asked me to babysit last night. My spirit rebelled, and then I felt really guilty about it, then said yes. I was facing a trip to Rockeldge to put babies to bed, when she called telling me she had made other arrangements. That made me feel even worse, since I knew it was an inconvenience to her. Then I read Jesus Calling. Wow! ” To live in My Presence consistently, you must expose and expel your rebellious tendencies. When something interferes with your plans or desires, you tend to resent the interference. Try to become aware of each resentment, however petty it may seem. Don’t push those unpleasant feelings down; instead, let them come to the surface where you can deal with them. Ask My Spirit to increase your awareness of resentful feelings. Bring them boldly into the Light of My Presence, so that I can free you from them.
“The ultimate solution to rebellious tendencies is submission to My authority over you.. Intellectually you reoice in My sovereignty, without which the world would be a terrifying place. But when My sovereign will encroaches on your little domain of control, you often react with telltale resentment.
“The best response to losses or thwarted hopes is praise: The Lord give and the Lord takes away. Blessed by the name of the Lord. Remember that all good things–your possessions, your family and friends, your health and abilities,, your time–are gifts from Me. Instead of feeling entitled to all these blessings, respond to them with gratitude. Be prepared to let go of anything I take from you but never let go of my hand!” (Sarah Young)
So, was it really too much trouble to drive to Rockledge? No. I just needed to put gas in the car, try not to get sick from the tummy bug our Paul had experienced all day, and put the babies to bed. So why did I look for alternatives? Even worse, why did sweet Mary have to? Because my sinful, selfish nature is still alive and well, even after a day of blessed communion with fellow Christians which should have ushered me into the attitude of gratitude for God’s rich blessings. I should immediately have answered, “Sure, Mary. I’ll be right there.” Now I recognize my sinful attitude once again, and come before my Maker with repentance yet again. And to her this morning as I welcome Kaley and Emily for a long day at Grandma’s house. New beginning! No resentment. At least not yet.
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