Today, I praise Him for His wisdom, and I thank Him for the lessons He teaches me- especially through my “moments”. You know those “moments” when you forget to practice the virtues that do not naturally come to you? Lord, forgive me for my “moments”!
I received a lesson in prayer during a time in my young motherhood that God seemed to ask me to share with a friend struggling with the same “season”.
For a prayer group meeting, my friend and I were struggling with similar virtues, specifically, how we allow our daily duties to be distracting and how we allow our “moments” of frustration to interfere with our growth.
After my friend shared, I read to her what God seemed to speak to my heart, hoping it would help her.
I read from my prayer journal:
” Jesus seems to say to me- prideful me:
I am not here to help you do your will-you are here to help Me do Mine.
This world has it backward, it offers false praise that does not lead you to Me. Yet you continue to seek it out almost to the point of demanding recognition for the work you are doing for Me.
My child, I am enough. Your recognition and rewards are awaiting you in Heaven. Work out your salvation with more joy, knowing what awaits you. I cannot remind you enough- I love you and you are Mine. The work you are doing is not yours.
I know you struggle with how to accomplish My will. You are very good at seeing “the big picture”, but you must also concern yourself with the moment.
This pruning hurts- I know. But it is necessary for your growth and that your service to Me produces fruit.
… Look at those I place in your life. Do not compare yourself to them, but stay humble and learn from them. No, do not copy them or expect their praises- I made you to be you. But only the prideful do not seek to better themselves.
It is I- I AM your God- I love you and you are Mine. “
That night, as I sat waiting for my then-little ones to finish up in the tub, I picked up a pamphlet and scanned the pages, landing on this:
“Mary’s message: You have ‘cause for rejoicing’ – cause for ‘inexpressible joy touched with glory,’ as St Peter said. An imperishable inheritance is kept in heaven for you. A crown of glory awaits you. Every day brings you closer to your inheritance in the everlasting kingdom”
It seems to echo the key points of the words I shared. The words in my prayer journal that I thought were just for me were not. God’s word is for us all! He constantly consoles and disciplines us, forever drawing us closer to Him and His perfect will for our lives.
Sacred Heart family-praise Him and thank Him through it all! Repent when you have a “moment” and do not forget to set aside time to listen when you pray. God just may speak to your heart and prompt you to share His message with others.
I challenge you to share with others what He is doing in your life! Share those words you sense He speaks to you during your quiet time with Him, for you never know who needs to hear them.
