The "Eesh" In Life

      This week's blogs were written four years ago when our now five-year-old grandson was one. Have a great week!

     Our one-year-old grandson is just learning to walk. You will usually find him crawling speedily around the house. That is, until he spots something that stops him in his tracks. It might be a pebble, a piece of lint, or a small string on our wood floors. Luckily, he doesn’t put them in his mouth (obviously a brilliant child). Instead, he will grasp the tiny item, get on his knees and hold it up for us until we reach over and take it from his tightly pinched fingers. His facial expression turns to one of mild disgust and he says,”eeesh.”

     So adorable. How often do we get derailed and disgusted by the smallest irritations in our day? Another driver cuts us off, or an irritating habit of a loved one drives us crazy, or the personality of a co-worker is becoming unbearable. The list goes on. These little “eeesh” moments in life can move us from joy and peace and contentment and set us off on the wrong track.

     The Bible continually warns us against fret and worry, against bitterness and anger and offers us instruction on how to prepare and avoid them. It isn’t often I use the Amplified Bible. Its wordiness can be burdensome, but today there is valuable emphasis added to these favorite verses from the book of Philippians.

Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything (every situation and circumstance) by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, continue to make your (specific) requests known to God. And the peace of God (that peace that reassures the heart) which transcends all understanding stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

     Like Gavin, let’s reach up and hand over our “eeesh” situations and the small irritations in life to someone bigger and more able to handle them. Let’s allow Jesus to lift the damaging emotions from our hearts and our minds and feel His reassurance, as He fills us with His everlasting peace. And once handed over, continue on your merry way.

Lord,

Thank You for the lessons You give us, for the teaching moments that remind us to turn to You over and over again when we need to be lifted up and reassured. We give it all to You and accept Your peace.

Amen