In case you think I’ve got it all together …
If you’ve been following LROL for awhile, then you are probably aware of the fact that I am preggers. Very preggers, in fact (8-and-a-half months). What you are probably not aware of is how much this pregnancy has been kicking my keester. If you’ve seen the movie, “What to expect when you’re expecting,” I can definitely relate to Elizabeth Banks’ character.
One of the unfortunate side effects of this pregnancy is the state of my house. In case you don’t believe me, here is a snapshot of the baby’s nursery, taken earlier this week:
We are expecting our little man in five weeks, people! Tiny is really the only person who has worked on decorating this space. She said her little brother will need a fort to hang out in and a place to sleep (hence the blankets on the floor). Too cute!
I’m also ashamed to tell you how long my living room chair looked like this before I finally cleaned it off this week:
At any rate, you get the point. I’m pooped out. But as I was reading through John 15 the other day, I was drawn to these passages:
“… Every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” – John 15:2
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” – John 15:5
I realize that, right now, I am in a state of being pruned. In other words, God is working on getting rid of some of the ugly parts of me, particularly my spirit of discontentment, my tendency to procrastinate, my lack of self-discipline and my penchant for worrying and complaining.
Understanding this, I’ve committed to
“… Be confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” – Phil. 1:6
And I am recognizing and rejoicing in what I am being taught right now. For example:
1. I will try to never take my health, vitality and energy for granted again.
2. Instead of lamenting what I cannot accomplish right now, I will relish the quality family time I am spending with my daughter and husband (movies and family game nights galore).
3. I will thank God daily for the blessing of being able to carry and deliver a child.
4. I will recognize and thank the amazing people around me who continue to support and encourage me.
5. I will allow God’s power to rest on me.
“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” – 2 Cor. 12:9
What spiritual “season” are you experiencing right now? What is God teaching you during this time?
Thanks for sharing your heart. I struggle with some of the same things you mentioned! Right now, God is teaching me to have patience and not lose hope.
Romans 5:3-5
And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
Ooh, I love those verses. Thanks for the encouragement, Sarah!
I too share some of the same concerns. Thank you so much for sharing and for the scriptures…perfect!
One of my favorites and applicable to me every day…
Jeremiah 29:11
New International Version (NIV)
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”.
What timely and due Word, Susan. I hope these last five weeks go smoothly and I look forward to meeting your little guy!
I must be in the same season. We just welcomed our little girl ( less than a week ago) and for the 5th time I had to learn patience. I still dont think I have the lesson down pat though!
Congratulations, Joyce! I’m so happy for you and your family.