Living Life Skillfully

The latest battle has been doing with a cheerful heart. While I am often doing things for others at work, with children I mentor, and in my personal life, I am not always enthusiastic about doing it. In fact, I have a few close people in my life who I typically turn to in order to complain about why I feel things tend to fall in my lap to take care of or get done. It is hard trying not to show the frustration, exhaustion or irritation when it comes to needing people to step up to the plate and JUST DO IT. If you have the ability to and can help somebody, just do it...It's what I tend to model for others regularly. However, this week I was convicted due to my outer and inner not aligning. I do, but I knew in my heart I was going through the motions, expecting something in return, and becoming angry because I desired credit or appreciation in return.

I am reminded of Proverbs 19:21, "You can make many plans, but the LORD'S purpose will prevail."

Regardless of what those around me may be doing, God's only concerned with my motives and actions. It is my desire to please him. And, fortunately for me--all of us--he cares enough that regardless of how simple we may act or respond to his will, he will still take us to that place of fulfilling our purposes.

As I come to the last week of studying Proverbs, perhaps what I've been constantly reminded of in this book are the following: fellowship/actions with others, practical instruction for life, preparation for any day of the week on the hour, and (of course) the importance of wisdom and applying it.

God is my source. When I think of everything He's sacrificed and given me, I'm reminded that I ought to give my very BEST in everything...not for glory, benefits, handouts, or anything else, but simply because I can because God has equipped me to be able to do so. I want to be the best me I can be because I was created by the best there ever was...Why wouldn't I want to showcase Him in my swagger (Laughing)?!

And, it is funny or ironic: The more we give, serve and do, the more we're blessed. When we're obedient, life comes together. Why simply exist in the world??? LIVE!

I am skilled in living (for him), which makes every challenge or situation I face one that can be managed, achieved and overcame!