A few empty jars...

I know that this is only the beginning, but there has been a few rough spots over the past few weeks.  Kinley and Karsyn are precious, and I know that they are always respectable to teachers and other adults in general.   However, when Mommy is the teacher they are not always on their best behavior!  We do a skittle jar every day, and they each start out with four skittles in their jar.  If I feel like they are not listening, giving their best, and/or not being kind they have to pull out a skittle.  Needless to say there have been a few empty jars the last few weeks!  As the skittle jars are being emptied usually my patience are too.  I know the environment of homeschool is going to be something we will overcome over time.  The pouting has to stop, or this momma is going to go crazy!!  This week we made some listening ears, and I hoped that would help illustrate the importance of listening (not only to me, but to God).  On their headband I wrote, "Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise." Proverbs 19:20.  They each got to pick an animal and those were the type of ears I attached to the headband.  They loved the headbands, we just need to work on the verse! ;-)

This just reminded me of times in our lives when we want to give up.  It is so easy to throw in the towel, or at least want to!  We all make commitments in our lives, and hopefully the ones that God has called us to we will stick to.  Just because God called you to do something does not mean that it will always be peachy.  There is an enemy out there that wants to steal, kill, and destory the plans that God has for us.  My pastor, Pastor Bryan King, says something often and I think it applies to us in these situations.  "Do not respond out of your pain or emotions, but respond out of your purpose."  For me it is usually my emotions that distract me and take my eyes off of the Lord.  We must continuously remind ourselves that God is in control, and he is with us every step of the way.  It may not always be easy, but as long as He is directing our steps then we know it will all work out.  I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I am doing what God wants me to do, and I will fix my eyes upon Him.  Those days that I feel weary or frustrated I will look to Him.  Know your enemy...he does want to rob us of those plans, and sometimes you just need to tell him a thing or two about your God!!!  My God is mighty, and He is bigger than any problem or obstacle.  He is my strength, and He is the only reason why I make it through some days. 

But, out of my purpose I will respond and stay strong!! 

We have learned so much over the past few weeks, and I am so proud of both of my girls!!