emotions aren't the end

Some days I feel inadequate... as a wife, mother, and friend.
Some days I am furiously frustrated and emotionally drained.
Some days I am so worn-down, tired and weary
that after the kids are in bed, I just want to
crawl into my room, lock the doors, and cry.

Yesterday was one of those days.

I am sorry to admit that my throat was sore last night from yelling at disrespectful, disobedient children.

But you know what?
"Joy comes in the morning."
See Psalm 30, verse 5.

Every morning is a new day and another chance to do better.
I have taught my kids to pray and thank God for "this day", and I love hearing this sentiment echoed back to me in their childish voices... because they may not understand it right now, but the truth is, there aren't any guarantees about tomorrow. 

I am learning that my emotions should not limit me.
And I should not let my frustrations or failures limit God.
My feelings are NOT the same as my circumstances.
Even in my tiredness and weakness, even when I'm at my worst, God is there.
And he is working, in me and those around me. Even when I feel inadequate.

Along with a group of people at church, I am going through a Bible Study called "Experiencing God" by Henry Blackaby. It's been around for quite awhile, but was recently updated. The ideas in this study are not new. They are actually pretty basic and simple. But I love that it has devotional thoughts and questions for each day, and really digs into the heart of God (and, in contrast, the heart of ourselves and our sinful nature). Sometimes I need something that just tells me what to study. Everyday with our homeschool lessons, I'm gleaning from others or making up my own material. It's really nice to have a break from that. It's an excellent study, for beginners, soul seekers, or experienced Christians.

(And no, I don't gain anything from the links above.
No affiliate links here; I'm not cool enough for that.)

Here's to Wednesday... Hoping it's a better day then yesterday.

A family for Noah

My last post was about an orphaned boy named Noah looking for a family to call his own.
Well, I just got some great news - a family has been found for him!
You can read a few more details here:
 http://www.nogreaterjoymom.com/2013/10/with-joy-i-can-share.html
This means that hopefully he won't be an orphan for much longer.
They have a lot of paperwork and government red-hoops to jump through,
in order to meet the deadline of his birthday in December,
but with God's help and grace it will happen.

Thanks lots to those of you who prayed for this young man.
If you can, please continue to pray for him, that the adoption process would go smoothly.