Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” Ephesians 6:7

This scripture makes me look at my work as a mother in whole different light. Many times I do find myself working for people to make sure I have their approval or to appease them. I've asked myself, "Did I just do that because it was the righteous thing to do or did I just do that, so I can make others happy?" I then have to take a step back from the situation & reexamine my intentions. I've learned & have been reminded more times then I care to admit that trying to please others all the time is impossible. All I can do is my best & let God take care of the rest. I've reprimanded myself for all the effort that I use in trying to please others, when that same enthusiasm can used to please the One that matters the most, --->God.

Psalm 9:1-2 NLT
I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done. I will be filled with joy because of you...

One valuable thing about being a Christian women is looking for the good God makes out of every situation. God is always at work and has a greater purpose, even I fail to see it. Seeing God's blessings in tough situations leads to praise & gratitude. When I begin to look for God to show up in my life, he will be there doing marvelous things and I will be filled with joy

The Gift of Peace.

John 14:27 NLT
27 “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.

The peace God has given us is a gift and it's up to us to receive it. The way I look at this verse is similar to when someone buys you a gift, you accept it, but you never open it. So, it stays there beautifully wrapped, but you'll never know what's inside. Many of us have accepted the peace of God, but have not experienced it or chose not to use it because we have retreated to our own methods of self peace. Don't let this gift stay on the shelves of your heart collecting worry, fear of the unknown, depression, etc. Open your heart to experience something the world can't give you, peace that passes all understanding.