Fellow former procrastinators, you make me happy and grateful. We’re friends traveling a road we sometimes want to be on and sometimes do not. We want to be different from our natural bent of procrastination, but we don’t relish the process of change. Still we find submission to God’s change in us very rewarding. We and those around us benefit from our new diligence. We’re encouraged to go on – and taste more of His goodness.
This Thanksgiving here are some things I’m especially grateful for – and some ways they prompt me toward generosity. Thank you, Lord, for:
- Salvation in Christ. / Share the joy and peace found only in Him.
- Helping me learn to do what needs doing when it needs doing. / Help others find peace, direction, rest, fun, and accomplishment that comes from biblical diligence.
- Consequences of diligence – more peace in our hearts and home, more margin, more focus on priorities. / I’m freer to reach out to others.
- Sharing this journey with reader friends. /I feel accountable to you. If I write about something, I’ve either done it or I’m working on the topic.
- Clarifying priorities. /I’m cleared to focus wholeheartedly on the people I’m with or on a project.
- My husband who teaches and serves me. / Lovingly respect him – including being quiet while he’s working.
- Increased opportunities to be with our children, hearing them speak truth to me. / Listen to more from them and try their suggestions.
- The privilege of seeing grown children seek the Lord and grow in Him. /Joyfully give them space, free of a managing mom.
- Visits with family and old friends of many years, sharing God’s continued goodness and new challenges. / Maintain better contact.
- Bible study – alone and with friends who stretch me. /Should I form a study so others can have this joy?
- The women who most influence me through their love, example, discipleship, faithfulness to the Lord and to me. They challenge and encourage me by seeking time together. /How can I be this to other women?
- The God-given ability to continue learning – to be green and growing at any age. /Submit to God’s challenging prompts to enter arenas unfamiliar to me.
- The men and women who serve in public capacities and stand for truth. /Besides voting, how can I support them?
- Those who founded our nation and those in each generation who have sacrificed for our good. /How can I be preserving salt and light?
- Brothers and sisters in Christ worldwide, many suffering, standing firm. /Support them in prayer, write on behalf of persecuted believers.
Preparation: *Continue to cook ahead.
- Set the table with centerpiece the day before. You’ll enjoy it! Take a picture so you can repeat what you like.
- Check the bathrooms
- Dress early
- Stay flexible (found out kids will not arrive by Thursday)
- Celebrate with joy!
What are you grateful for this year? How does your gratitude prompt you to generosity?
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