Since our 4 Sunday services this month will be on The Circle Maker, I have decided to read the book again. For, I think, the third or fourth time. I love that book. I especially love the 'Draw The Circle' devotional Mark Batterson put out as well. I think I have been through that one about 4 times. I may do that one again as well. I get something new out of it each time I read it.
Sorta like reading the Bible over and over - each time God shows me something new, something different. Unfortunately, it is usually something I need to work on. Lately I've been reading in James about taming the tongue. Do I ever fail miserably on that one! Not so much at home, but, confession time, believe it or not, it is so hard at work to control the tongue. Many times when I hear people say things or do things, I want to go (and some times do) "are you kidding me? are you that stupid?" Ok - sometimes I think the second part of that, but many times I want to say it under my breath!
I reviewed my "list" of circles I created back in January 2012 when I first read The Circle Maker and noted which ones I needed to update that my prayers were answered, where did I need to be a bit more specific, and where did I need to really continue to pray. I need to start focusing on my prayer circles again.
Do I believe that God will answer my prayers? Absolutely. There isn't a doubt in my mind. However, I also know that He doesn't always answer the way I ask for the answer. I want each of my children to be blessed and have all that they need (I'm writing this without being specific right now), but sometimes I want to scream at them what they are doing or what is going on in their lives is NOT where I see God working. I want harmony within the family. Putting others before blood is wrong and is NOT what I pray for, is NOT what God wants. Being self-centered (yes, I have to work on this one too) is wrong. Being Christ centered is right. Being open and honest is right. Being open, honest and cruel, is wrong. You know what I'm saying.
I pray over our finances - each one of the children - our church - and even us. Finances are tough for all of us. I know I have done my part in making things tighter for us, but, I need to start focusing on how I can help get us out of debt. With Christmas less than 4 months away, I have a struggle within me. But, each one knows that I love them dearly. It isn't about the gift; it is about the value - and I don't mean monetary. I need to write down things as I think about them so that I can follow through on what I think will bring joy to each one. I know each one understands. For me, it is more important that they take care of their family first.
Circling prayers. Getting out of debt is one of my prayers. Each of my children become surrendered to Jesus Christ is another. Another circle is that each one of my children will become debt-free. And yet another is that each of the grandchildren will know Jesus as Lord. Another is that we can be truly a family; without pretense, without tolerance, but with complete love and forgiveness and acceptance.
I have a lot of other circles, and I've even created a bucket list. I really need to revise it. Some things just won't happen on my bucket list. Some I need to put in bold, to keep me focused. Some are just dreams that maybe some day....
I'm starting to mellow out so guess I'll hush.... potato salad is made, lettuce salad is made - we're soon going to head to the daughter's for the day. Got a text earlier that Annabelle, our princess' dog, wanted to know if Marley was coming to visit. I think Marley is looking forward to seeing her new friend. It looks really cloudy out so there may not be much pool time today.
Oh well, I have to work some this afternoon. Taking my computer and printer with me, as I mentioned in yesterday's blog. It wasn't necessarily a 'volunteer' to work today; for me, it is mandatory. We have crucial deadlines to meet and severe penalties if we are out of compliance. I don't want to lose my job over not being in compliance; I'll work a few hours this afternoon to keep it from happening. If it rains we'll be watching a movie on TV anyway so I won't even be missed.
Need to check on some other things so guess I need to get off here. Hope you have a good and safe Labor Day and enjoy spending the extra day with family.
Blessings!
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