Drat those New Year's Resolutions. One of mine was to be more content. But, did I stop there?
Nooooooo.
I had to go on to say this year I am going to strive to be content in ALL things. What I didn't consider was winter. A cold winter. Colder than usual even. With snow. And more snow. And even snow predicted again this Friday. As if the 3/4" we've already had this winter isn't enough already.
And, here I am feeling downright grumpy less than content that I still have 40 days left until spring. It may as well be 140... or 1,000,040! Because today it's cold. And gray. And cold.
But, I shall be content. Because I resolved to do it. I had a Bible teacher say one time, "Do what is right because it is right until it feels right." In other words, even when I'm not feeling it, I shall practice contentment with the promise that one day I'll feel it. Or at least I shall have patience with it, tolerance for it, and a little less loathing in my heart. I don't want to aim too high.
One thing that helps winter contentment issues is a stack full of these... 
"Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, (even winter) in reproaches, (even cold toes) in necessities, (even grocery shopping in the sleet) in persecutions, (even heaters that go out when your husband is on a hunting trip) in distresses (even frozen outdoor water spigots) for Christ's sake: for when I am weak (and cold), then am I strong (and less whiny)." 2 Corinthians 12:10 (parentheses added by me... but you knew that already, didn't you?)
"Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, (even winter) in reproaches, (even cold toes) in necessities, (even grocery shopping in the sleet) in persecutions, (even heaters that go out when your husband is on a hunting trip) in distresses (even frozen outdoor water spigots) for Christ's sake: for when I am weak (and cold), then am I strong (and less whiny)." 2 Corinthians 12:10 (parentheses added by me... but you knew that already, didn't you?) 
4 comments:
Unfortunately, I understand all too well. We are so blessed, but it's so easy to be discontent, especially in this weather. We haven't had snow, but we have had many, many inches of rain here in Texas and many, many dreary winter days. I, too, am ready for spring, but I'm trying to be content with winter.
Thanks for the reminder! My mother always said "grow where you are planted". It is her life motto and she does that well! And although I have been very flexible and have thrived in all the places we have gone, I have trouble finding contentment in areas I wish I had control over. At this junction in my life it is fertility. I have four beautiful babies and am learning to be content with them instead of focusing way too much on trying to have more. God is in control.
Thanks so much for this! I needed to read this today. It was almost if you read my mind. I would like to link back to you, if that is OK?
That's absolutely OK, Allison!
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