Tag: relationships

Be Humble

Published on by Kim

Humility. That’s a big concept. That’s a hard concept.

We know our Lord was humble. We know the promised rewards are great.

The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life. (Proverbs 22:4)

Yes, please. Give me life! But what does that mean in daily life?

I…urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:1-3)

It means…

  • Focused on our calling as children of God rather than our exalted status related to others.
  • Gentleness instead of running over everyone in our path.
  • Patience instead of demanding results right now, or answers right away.
  • Bearing with one another — putting up with people or behaviors that aren’t what we prefer or aren’t at the maturity level we think they should be — instead of correcting every little thing or cutting off anyone who doesn’t meet our standards.
  • Maintaining unity instead of focusing on different approaches and styles.
  • Promoting harmony and peace instead of fueling conflict.

How can we possibly see this in our lives?

…forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. (Colossians 3:12)

Does anyone put up with you? Do you need to mature? Who has loved you with an everlasting love and patiently draws you to Himself? How much has He forgiven you?

Think on that as you walk humbly today.

Celebrating Milestones

Published on by Kim1 Comment

Funnily enough, I am writing this while a birthday cake is in the oven! It is a week early, because of the work travel schedule, but we are going to celebrate regardless.

Why?

One reason is simply because it’s an opportunity to show love. Birthdays, holidays, graduations, and more, are a special reason to show special favor to those who are important to you. A generous spirit doesn’t need a reason to give, but it will also make the most of the opportunities that are there! For example, the first day of each season can be a time to stop and enjoy the things special to it. First snow may be a snow fort afternoon for the whole family followed by steaming hot cocoa. First day of spring could have you making bouquets to cheer up the neighbors.

Another reason would be to reflect priorities. A day set apart to honor our mothers and fathers is a time to show them how much we love and appreciate them. A wedding anniversary can do the same thing, reminding us to say again how much we cherish our spouses. Setting aside normal routine to celebrate shows that special value.

Sometimes we just like the opportunity to remember what God has done. My husband and I enjoy repeating our first four dates on the anniversaries. It doesn’t always work in the schedule, but when it does, we have a special time of memories from those first weeks together. Celebrating a conversion anniversary would also be a reminder of God’s work. He does so much, it won’t take long to find an opportunity for this one either!

Celebrations can be encouragement as well. A special dinner or activity when your child gets their first “real” job shows how valuable hard work and responsibility is. Graduation from high school can be a celebration that still looks forward to the next stage. You made it through these years, and now you can tackle those.

This applies to small milestones also. A first book read alone could lead to a trip to the bookstore. The first meal planned, cooked, and served might be followed by a vase of flowers.

Knowing that a celebration will likely be coming can help your family push through the struggle, because you’re pulling for them and love sharing the joy when it is done. A cheerleader is a precious support.

So what do you have to celebrate today?