"Just one more chance Mommy pleeease," my seemingly innocent four year old daughter requested as she held up her index finger with a grin that gave way to a giggle. I can remember it like it was only yesterday. She knew I would give her one more chance even though we both knew she should not have turned on a flashlight under the covers to sneak and read her new book when she was supposed to be sleeping. Many years have passed, and my daughter is now almost fifteen and will be driving soon...yikes! I suppose I still find myself giving her second chances on occasion depending on the severity of the offense. When it comes to matters of character and obedience to Christ, I am not so quick to offer a second chance I must admit, but I am so glad we have a Father in Heaven who is certain to offer a second chance every time IF we will only turn to Him and repent.
"The LORD is gracious and full of compassion, Slow to anger and great in mercy." Psalm 145:8
As we begin a new year in 2012 we reflect on things we wish we had done differently in the previous year and make those fresh resolutions with renewed commitments. We cannot change our past nor should we dwell in it, but we can learn from our mistakes knowing that God will take ALL experiences, even when we stumble, and turn those into stepping stones to build our faith and our testimony if we will let Him.
Romans 8:28 reminds us that "all things work together for good to those who love God, and are called according to His purpose."
Even when we stumble? Yes, even when we stumble. In fact, even when we fall flat on our face or choose temporarily, in a moment of weakness, the dark instead of the precious light.
1 John 1:9 says "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrightousness."
So this year as I wrap up my list of resolutions....lose 10 more pounds, save more money, organize my home (wasn't that one on my list LAST year?) and actually USE that gym membership I purchased...I think I will do something slightly different as I create my checklist. I will include a written prayer of gratitude to my Jesus...thanking Him for second chances. Won't you join me? Is there something you can surrender to Him today knowing He IS a God of His word?
"Thank you Jesus for offering a second chance to ALL who simply choose to repent and turn to you. Thank you for loving me in spite of myself and knowing that I will spend my entire life striving to be like you, but falling short each time. May I be a light for others to follow that leads to the eternal light only found in you..."
The Victorious Life
"A strong woman knows she has strength enough for the journey, but a woman of strength knows it is the journey where she will become strong."
Hebrews 12:1-2
"...let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith..."
Hebrews 12:1-2
"...let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith..."
About Me
- Monica
- It is my desire that this blog be a place where women can visit and be encouraged and blessed. May the words and stories on this page speak to hearts that need mending, spirits that need filling, and people who simply need to be reminded that Jesus loves them in spite of all else. I am a blessed mom to 3 precious children, Crystal 13, Cameron 12, and Carson who is 3. I am certain God must have a sense of humor as I realized we were expecting our 3rd child just as I got rid of the last of the sentimental baby items AND was about to turn 40! However God gave us a blessing we did not even realize we needed. He does know best! I cannot wait to learn more about you as well, and I hope that you will make yourself at home here and comment as you feel led to share. So pour yourself a cup of coffee or hot tea (Starbucks' Sumatra is my new favorite :) and let's visit!
Thank you for sharing, Monica. Keep sharing. You may never know how many lives you have touched and helped change until you reach "Home". -Jackie
ReplyDeleteThank You Friend...we are ALL called to be servants here on earth sowing seeds we may never see until eternity. Thank you for your precious words of encouragement!
ReplyDeleteMeeting you and having you as a friend and a business associate has definitely been a blessing in my life. In our travel of life we meet many people, some are real and many aren't, you are as very real.
ReplyDeleteHey precious lady. I am so blessed to have to in my "family". What joy it has been to watch you grow into such a beautiful, sweet, godly lady. I will be looking forward to reading your blog. Much love, Aunt Peggy
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