A Colloquy on Rejoicing

from Valley of Vision, A Colloquy on Rejoicing (portions)

Remember, O my soul,
It is thy duty and privilege to rejoice in God:
He requires it of thee for all his favours of grace.
Rejoice then in the Giver and his goodness,
Be happy in him, O my heart, and in nothing but God,
for whatever a man trusts in,
from that he expects happiness...

Art thou seeking to rejoice in thyself
from an evil motive of pride and self-reputation?
Thou hast nothing of thine own but sin,
nothing to move God to be gracious
or to continue his grace towards thee...

Sorrow for self opens rejoicing in God,
Self-loathing draws down divine delights...

Let God be all in all to thee,
and joy in the fountain that is always full.

Gifts I recognize...

206. Focusing on MY sin. That's the only way to see how great the Lord is and to see Him at work in my life!

205. Yesterday was a "great" day. My first attempt at getting PJW on a schedule (of sorts, more for my santity than anything else) went well. Able to spend some quality time with the bigger kiddos. Able to be semi-consistent in training/disciplining kiddos. Able to have Circle Time with kiddos. Made it through the rough period (4pm - 7pm) - I struggle greatly in getting dinner on the table, everyone fed (including PJW who always needs to eat again as the bigger kids are eating!), everyone ready for bed and in bed. But we had a peaceful evening routine, for the most part.

204. financial gift from distant family. Totally unexpected, totally not necessary or deserved. Totally and completely a result of God's work in those family member's lives. (You know who you are. We are so thankful to God for your generosity!)

203. $275 in Babies R Us gift cards from William's job for the arrival of Paloma Joy! Diapers are expensive and this is a TREMENDOUS help and gift from God!

202. Bethany will be moving in this weekend to stay with us for a year. (I know. News to just about everyone!) We truly believe (though adjustments will need to be made all around) this will be a blessing to her and our fam. I am so excited - which is a miracle and a blessing from God!

201. took Paloma off Zantac after only 24-hours. Grateful for WDW's leaderships there and our unity in that decision. The Lord provided another option (we're trying Colic Calm) and we have peace to give that a try. Overall, I am just thankful that God is sovereign over our little girl's life and in fact loves her way more than we ever could. And, He is faithful to provide for His children. Thank You, Father, for watching over every part of her life!