Well it has been awhile. I've gotten pretty beaten up and it has taken awhile for me to feel like I've grasped the spiritual meaning in the crummy event. Basically, I was upset for a number of days and was not seeking Him. What a stupid way to handle the difficulty but I guess I'm still growing by the grace of God. The comfort I found is summarized in this wonderful promise found in the Bible: Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who^[a] have been called according to his purpose." So I got burned by some people I poured my heart and soul into and thought were my friends. Well, God has a purpose in it. Why should I remain hurt or become embittered when God is going to use this for some type of good? It is hard for me to see any good coming out of this but I believe God's Word and it brings me great comfort. God is going to use this for good! Thank you Jesus. 

In Genesis chapter 8 Noah exits the ark with his family along with all the creatures he brought on board. What a clean slate. A fresh new start. The Lord has given me a new lease in life. He saved me not only from eternal punishment but also from a life in bondage to sin. Today I had to protect the sanctity of my new life in Christ by making a decision to refuse an earthly family member's request for an extended stay at my house. I love this person but they do not love the Lord. They take his name in vain and are self-centered and insensitive. It was very difficult to say no because this is such a close family member but at the same time, I ought not place myself or my family in the path of sinners. I'm still struggling with this decision emotionally but with respect to my life in Christ, I know that I serve Him first and have a responsibility to maintain a peaceful home. When I think of Noah's sons who refused to gaze at his nakedness, how careful must I be to avoid being corrupted by the behavior of a family member who denies the Lord. Sometimes space is a good thing. Jesus please give me discernment in when to say yes, and when to say no. Amen.

I've been waking up around 5 each morning with softball on my mind. Although I'm the manager of my daughters travel team, this has been troubling to me as I know life is not about softball. Well, the tournament is over (we lost) and it looks like I am in the habit of waking up at 5 for the time being. So this morning, I decided to put my uncanny early morning energy to good use and get into my Bible before sunrise. Colossians 1:10 -14 was for me today. Regarding my stress in stressing about softball; I believe it comes from my fear of losing focus of my true hearts desire: to please the Lord. Today's Bible passage told me four things that please my Lord: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of Him, being strengthened by His might that I can endure and be patient, and finally, joyfully giving thanks to Him. What a straightforward list of things for me to strive for today. I like simple instructions. God is so good. The best part was the last couple of verses when I was reminded of my right standing with Him through Jesus, in whom I have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Hallelujah!