So to keep you all "accountable" - I've made it 2 months now with getting up early and still going strong. I really am starting to look forward to it even more. And it is getting easier to get up. I feel like I have so much more time in the mornings. And I've even started getting up earlier, like 6ish so that I can get my exercise in too. That gives me so much more free time at nap time and during the day, b/c the 2 biggest things for myself are already accomplished.
How have you all been doing?
Richard also got me a John Piper book titled: When I Don't Desire God, How to Fight for Joy. This book is so good, and I'm just bubbling over and wanting to share it all with you mothers out there. I think as mother's for some reason we are prone to "depression -like tendencies" or sadness or loneliness. At least I hope I'm not the only one. . .
In talking with a lot of my friends I do find this to be true. I battle this "depressed" feeling often. Exercise helps, and making the effort to see people or show other's love in some way helps, but in starting this book, I have realized there is no reason for this feeling. I have not read it all - but the whole idea of Piper in this book, is that we need to find joy and pleasure and happiness in Christ Jesus and what he has done for us (mainly the gospel in it's entirety), and that in turn will bring Glory to him, which is our ultimate goal in this Christian walk. He gives so much scripture and psalms. It's so convicting to read.
There is no reason for me to be sad - God has done so much for me and promises me so much, and gives me hope for every day. I need to preach to myself the truths of the Scripture when I am bending toward the lonely feelings, and realize, that if I find my hope and happiness in Christ, I will be glorifying him. How Freeing - I can most Glorify God when I am happy! Why do I get "depressed" or sad? I can be free and find my joy and fulfillment in him, and he will be Glorified.
Lord, may this be my life - may I remember this every day.
I will have to post every now and then excerpts from the book. There are so many things underlined. I'm anxious to encourage other mothers out there with things this book has taught me. And looking forward to sharing scripture to encourage also.
Psalm 35.27
Let those who delight in my
righteousness shout
for joy and be glad.
Psalm 17:15
As for me, I shall behold your face in
Righteousness, when I awake, I shall be
satisfied with your likeness
2 comments:
Jess, I know how you feel about those "depressed" moments! I get them more than I'd like to admit.
Also...I bought that book a while back and haven't cracked it open (thinking it'd be good for me) and now you've convinced me to start reading it soon!!! Thanks for your encouragement. Not only by your blog...but by your friendship, too!!
Makes me want to read the book. I'm glad you're doing so well. It is encouraging to a mother's heart to read these great posts on here! You are a great wife and mother - but you're a great daughter too!:-)
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