Starting off with a quote from the book "Good Morning with God" by Jennifer Rothschild. She is talking about the days we feel like giving up on life.
"The problem, however, with giving up or giving in is that we get what we give."
That made me think. The Scripture she referenced is Galatians 6:7 which says "Do not be deceived. God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." (NIV) The Message puts it this way: "Don't be misled: No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants, he will harvest."
I've never thought of this passage in regards to anything but finances - give generously and you will receive generously. This is even though the following verses reference actions and attitudes. I'm not sure if that's because finances have been taught in church in reference to this verse or what. Either way - new thought - not the right word - for me...Jennifer applies it to attitudes and actions. If we give into depression and despair that is what we will receive - defeat and despair. However if, in those times, we deliberately focus on praising and thankfulness God will bless. The following verses back this up so I'm not at all sure why I've not seen it before.
Christmas time is a time I've always struggled - think I'm much like my dad in this area. This year has been much worse than normal - we've had several days of rainy gloomy weather, I've had chickens die, little time with friends, money is a bit tight and we are coming up on an anniversary of Mom's home-going. Yesterday I was extremely teary. Today I'm going to do my best to focus on the blessings and go from there. Firstly the sun is shining today!
