and be thankful

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:15-17)

"And be thankful"... did you catch that command in vs. 15?
Boy, that sure hit home for me today.

Yesterday, I had a very hard day. Everything was a mess. Everything was going wrong. I was physically and emotionally bogged down, broken, beaten-up and bombarded with matters that seemed unforgiving and unending. The enemy really had a hold on my spirit, and I, unfortunately, allowed his hold to keep me from seeking God more intimately. Because of this, I wasn't living in the fullness I knew God had desired for me to enjoy yesterday. Rather, I was drowning in defeat and physical pain. Yesterday was a very, very difficult day.

It was a day that not only affected me. Due to my short temper and weariness, it clearly had a domino effect on the spirits of my family. They all could feel my stress. They all were struck with my lack of motivation. They all felt the pain I have physically endured as the weather continues to change. But thankfully, my dear husband had the wisdom and drive to stay focused and positive. Thankfully, my wonderful mother (Momba) had the grace to encourage and help out where needed. Thankfully my family knew better than I.

We all have days where Satan wins small battles and sets us back. We all have moments when we allow the enemy access to bruise our spirits in an effort to halt our progress and stop us from moving forward in God's grace. But thankfully... thankfully... every day is a new day - a new gift from God. Every minute is a new moment. Every second provides us a new opportunity to turn from our pity party and seek Jesus and His joy. Thankfully, one small battle does not win the entire war. For my God has already won the war! In Him, I am free. I am soooo thankful that He reminded me of this today.

In all things I will give thanks. I will gladly welcome back the peace of Christ to rule in my heart again. Today, my focus is back on HIM... where it should be. I will remember to follow his command and be thankful.

I am so thankful that God continues to teach and bless me. Yesterday, I lost sight and forgot to seek Him and give thanks in every circumstance - even the hard ones. Today, however, is a new day! Yesterday is over. Today, by the grace of my King... I am able to start again... NEW and IMPROVED IN JESUS!

Thank you, Lord, for EVERYTHING! Thank you, Jesus, for LIFE! Thank you for showing me the way back to your abundance. Praise your name FOREVER!!! Get behind me, Satan. You are not welcome any longer as I have much celebrating to do TODAY!!!

Blessings!

Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson