Today's Lesson

     This morning after praying for a continual joyful attitude came a rough start to the day.  Today, I was scheduled to clean for Miss M.  So, as I was making my bed this morning close to 7:30 AM, I heard pounding from underneath my feet.  I didn't think I was walking loudly, or making much noise, but I guess I had.  I didn't feel very pleased with myself, to say the least.

     I was very saddened that I had displeased my relatively new neighbors below me.  It wasn't that long ago that there was a noise issue that had to be addressed, and had taken place in our home.  They were friendly about everything, and very forgiving.  I did not want another issue.  

     So, after the pounding from underneath, I quietly sat on my bed, gaining composure.  I want to have a good testimony with my neighbors, and it didn't seem as though it was getting off on the right foot...I prayed, and God helped me finish my morning, more quietly, and head over to Miss M's house.

     Already running a few minutes late, I figured the Lord was sparing me from some traveling danger.  Halfway to her house, I noticed something on my left side peripheral vision, near the visor.  It was a spider!  Eek!  After being bitten many times, I don't appreciate them as maybe I should.

     Trying not to swerve as I traveled 50 mph, I quickly pulled into the Plaza Market nearby to dispose of the creature.  The last thing I wanted was it nesting in my hair.  Disposed of, and still praying, I finished my route.

     Almost to her home, again, I realized I had forgotten to bring the reusable bags and Tupperware I told her I would bring, from the previous night's discussion.  Nearly 30 minutes from home, I wasn't turning around.  Due to my being flustered over the pounding on my floor (neighbor's ceiling) this morning, I could have easily walked out without my head screwed on straight.

     However, as I neared her home, I paid much closer attention to the cd of music to which I had been listening.  I was reminded of my great salvation, given to me by my great God.  Nothing could take away the peace of knowing I belong to the King of kings and Lord of lords.  No matter what happened, I would always have peace knowing I have a home in Heaven.  I have a very real and right relationship with Jesus Christ and God, thanks to His sacrifice.  

      I realized that all these things were being used to strengthen my resolve to keep my cool in any situation, stay in a constant mode of prayer, and always give thanks for God being in my life.  I know I never perfectly perform according to His will every day, but that is my desire.  Today, I had also given in to some ever-present temptations in my life.  Though I pray about it, and see them coming all the time, I am rebellious in the fact that I am not being more disciplined according to the truth of God:  I needn't give in to those temptations, but run to Him and He'll deliver me.  Thank God for the book of I Corinthians and James, in case I get a big head about myself.

     Nevertheless, I know my Lord loves me, and is quick and willing to forgive me my sins when I confess and forsake them.  He always reminds me of His redemption in my life.  The song I sung over and over again in the car today reminds me of that great love He had, and has, for me.  Thank You, Lord, for teaching me of joy, grace, and mercy...All in one day.

Redeemed, redeemed, thank God I'm set free:  from the hands of the great enemy!

Plucked out of his hands, by the Son of man:  redeemed from the hands, of the great enemy!