The Most Excellent Way (con't)

I loved this quote from the book: "Perhaps this happens because we don't see the love of God as a practical solution to problems."

I think that one statements sums up where our society has headed over the last 2 generations. God is seen more as a mythical creature and this love He offers, some magical power that is only in story books. Admittedly, I had trouble getting through chapters 4-6. I would like to say I can fault that solely on not having anyone to bounce ideas off the last several days, but that is not true. There are many people in my life, crap, in the world, that I could sit down with and have an intelligent conversation with about the love of God. So, let's say I am in a funk. I am, however, beginning to put into practice what I am learning.

I feel like my emotions are blocking my mind. There is so much wonderful information here to absorb, and it's not sinking in as fast as it is traveling. I can say though, that I have had peace today. Not the schmoopy smile on your face, narcotics induced kinda peace, but instead, an absence of rage. Now let me tell you, that is saying something in my world. I have rage attacks far more often than I care to admit, even to myself. But I have taken the author's advice, and really looked at God's perfect definition of love:

^"4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵ It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. ⁶ Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. ⁷ It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

⁸ Love never fails." 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a


So I feel like the best place to start is at the beginning. I have not fooled myself into thinking that I am going to wake up tomorrow and have God's love all figured out and perfect in practice. So I made a goal for myself, for this week, to focus on patience. It has gotten easier. Sunday, the day I began my practice, was hardest. It was a hard day, although I do get to take a moment here and brag that my 7 year old baby committed his life to Christ and I am one proud mama! The rest of the day took it's toll on me. So day one, not so great. Day two, well, I do believe I spent a portion of the day practicing patience. But I found myself slipping back into the mindless action of rude impatience, particularly with my children. I am learning, now that I am aware of the standards, where my shortcomings lay. And then there was today! I like to think that today was peaceful, and I was more patient than I have been in a long time. I have not failed to see the connection between the two. There were trials, make no mistake, but I could honestly feel God in me, helping me to maintain my calm and work through patience. It is amazing what He will do for you when you do it all for Him. :)

Pray for me as I continue on a path of God's infinite love.