You know those mornings where the day gets off to a rough start? By noon you’re ready to throw in the towel? Nothing is working, emergencies abound, tempers flare, etc. You’re not even sure why you got out of bed because nothing has been accomplished. The temptation is strong to write off the day as worthless, grab the bag of chocolate chip cookies for consolation, and wait until the next morning’s fresh start to try again. A blank slate is our only hope.

Except it’s not.

Recently a friend encouraged me with some wise insight. Instead of giving up on the day at noon, that’s the cue to stop and regroup. Pause. Pray for grace and wisdom. Seek a proper perspective on the day and a renewed focus. Plant our feet in the Word of God. Remember our priorities and how they direct our work. Remind ourselves of what matters.

Then, having turned our eyes in the right direction, we can walk on confidently and redeem the day. There is still hope. It is not too late. Even now, no matter the hour or what has already happened in the day, we have all we need to love God and love our neighbor and fulfill our callings well.