Monday, February 11, 2008

More from the sick bed

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Colossians 3:15


This is verse caught my eye during my time with the Lord today, and encouraged my anxious heart. I'm so tired of coughing, listening to coughing, being up all night with coughing children, having no appetite, laying around all day with emotional children...it isn't too pretty over here right now.

But I'm not letting the peace of God rule...I'm letting the cares of this life rule, aren't I?

So I asked the Lord to change my heart today, and of course He did. And when I pause to think about it, the next part of the verse comes so naturally...there is really so much I can choose to be thankful for. I am curled up by a nice, warm fire; my house is cozy and warm. We have plenty of food to get us through the week. There are no pressing commitments, nowhere we just have to be. We can hibernate and slowly regain strength.

And the blessings of having children come to mind today too...I have enjoyed the extra cuddling and talking we have all done during the past week. And I think they have enjoyed it too. With nowhere to go, we have enjoyed the family time we don't always get to have.

So there it is...I guess that's what "letting the peace of God rule" means...choosing to look at my circumstances with a thankful heart instead of worrying over what I cannot change. Man, this does not come naturally to me.

5 comments:

Kelly said...

OH Rachel, I'm so sorry you all are still under the weather! Thanks for your encouraging post. It comes after a long day at work trying to minister to sick kids and their families and just feeling like there is never enough time to do all things well. thanks for the encouragement! Love you and praying for you!

Kari said...

Get better!!! I am sorry that its been such a bad winter so far. The weather doesn't make things much better.
Know that you are encouraging many while in bed. Thanks for posting Rachel!

Jessie said...

I do love cuddling sick little ones-it is just no fun to be sick as well. Keep getting better-Miss you guys.

bandanachick said...

Great thoughts Rachel. It doesn't come naturally to me either...to look at life's circumstances without worry. It is neat to see the Lord working in you, through this all.

I wish I could come cuddle the boys. I need a cuddler! :)

Church Family said...

I know what it's like with sickness seeming to last forever. I will be praying that you all feel better soon!!
Amanda