gaining more perspective

sometimes i like to grow, sometimes i don't. usually the pains that come with it are realistic and harsh. i'm not really a fan of that second word.

the last month has opened my eyes to how blessed my life really is, how much i truly have to be thankful for and how many times i need to check myself before i grumble. and believe me, i can grumble with the best of them.

i blogged a few weeks ago about a dear friend from college who passed away unexpectedly leaving her husband and three young daughters behind. and another life long friend of mine who has recently had to spend the last two months in the children's hospital with her 18 month old who has been diagnosed with cancer. and here i sit and grumble b/c our finances are tight or our house hasn't sold yet...almost letting these things affect me to a point of affecting those around me.

i know God is just as concerned with my needs as He is with those i mentioned above...but what i'm learning through this is how MY attitude needs to be changed and how MY heart needs to be humbled.

i've been reading matthew this week, particularly chapters 5, 6, 7 and 8. and although i've read these chapters several times and the particular verse i'm getting ready to share a million times, it speaks to me differently every time i read it and really think about what the Lord is trying to show me.

chapter 6:31-33 (the message)
"what i'm trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way He works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how He works. Steep your life in GOD REALITY, GOD INITIATIVE, GOD PROVISIONS. don't worry about missing out. you'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.

enough said.