Mom Heart Moments #14

There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven.

SOME TIME AGO WHEN MY FAMILY was going through a difficult, troubled time, I had some discussion with the Lord and decided what I needed was to make some resolutions specifically for that season. A resolution is a determined commitment, an act of my will to decide in advance how I will behave and obey the Lord.

I resolved to reject any fearful thoughts by choosing to worship God and focus on His wonderful faithfulness and trustworthy character.

I resolved to be a strong pillar of faith for Clay in the midst of all he had to hold together. To not whine, complain, or falter unnecessarily in the midst of his hard work and commitment to figure out how to keep supporting our family. He needed me to “smile at the future,” like the woman in Proverbs 31.

I resolved to make this time a blessed season of great memories —warm soups, candlelight, inspiring stories of heroes in other times, cards of encouragement to friends who needed them, phone calls and phone prayers with my boys who needed support and encouragement in the midst of their financial difficulties, Bible studies and lifegiving words sent to all whom the Lord would bring to mind —simple efforts spent in eternal areas that would minister to the hearts of my precious family and friends.

I resolved to think of new ways that Sarah and Joy and I might serve others during those days. As we plan to be God’s hands and voice and words, it gives us a way to be about God’s business and to perceive the strategic role Christians can play in the lives of others.

Are you facing a particularly difficult season right now? What resolutions can you make in advance that would help you be prepared to make good decisions regarding your emotions, actions, and intentions when the pressing times come?