Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Spiritual Slumpiness and the Coming of Lent

My oldest daughter dragged herself to her desk this morning, not exactly in the right frame of mind for lessons. (Murmurs of a sister wearing the shirt she wanted to wear were heard under her breath. Yes, even home educated girls have occasional fashion "issues.") She opened her Bible to where we left off in Second Timothy and rattled off the list of godless behaviors found in chapter three. That was all she needed to bring her to a quick apology and a completely new attitude.

"For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul and spirit, joints and marrow, as it judges the thoughts and purposes of the heart." Hebrew 4:12.

I see the power of God's word in the hearts and minds of my children all the time. I'd be hard-pressed right now, though, to find evidence of that power in mine. Pregnancy has always been spiritually difficult for me. My energy level is low, my motivation to spend time in His word lags... Everything else suffers as a result: patience? self control? gentleness? Pretty much non-existent. (You may have noticed it's been a long time since I've posted anything remotely spiritual.)

Lent brings an opportunity to do better. With a baby due right in the middle of Lent, I probably won't be giving anything up (like coffee, chocolate, or other such nursing necessities). But I will definitely take on once again a more disciplined routine of fellowship with the Lord. I fully trust the power of His word to do its work in my heart and mind once again.

May God bless us all in our Lenten disciplines. 


4 comments:

Suzie L. said...

I can so relate. Pregnancy is a struggle for me. Dare I say it ... I do not like being pregnant. Thank goodness the baby at the end makes all worthwhile! I look forward to delivery (not labor!!) more than anything else.

Most times we have to do things we do not like in order to grow in holiness, compassion, spirit, love and all the other virtues. Thank goodness for the reminder of Lent.

Stacy Brown said...

I see the same thing with my kids....the Word always seems to change their heart attitude better than I could with my words of correction. Praying for you and baby...strength and health!

Anonymous said...

i just stumbled onto your site tonite while trying to find ideas for decorating my daughters room. (i googled american doll books) this post was an encouragement for sure. thanks :)

it looks like you're due the day b/f my bday. i'll have to remember to say a prayer. i've been there (near a due date) 6 times myself. it's a great thing...but such a huge challenge!!

Anonymous said...

Blessings and prayers for you during this last month of pregnancy and this Lenten season.

Wow, five little ones ... I better catch up!