But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

~1 Timothy 6:6-8

Today is Monday, and Mondays are always busy and hectic in our household. This morning was no exception, and I had to hit the ground running with meetings and helping Ben with his Bible verses and piano lesson. Stress was already high because our freezer’s ice and water dispenser broke, and the repairman quoted a nearly $300 dollar repair. Then when I went to run the dishwasher today, water started pouring onto the floor from underneath it. Of course John was working, so Ben and I are trying to grab towels and bowls while stopping the dishwasher cycle. Then when I decided to at least go watch the birds at the feeder and find some inner serenity, I saw the feeder broken on the ground. So, I did what any other overwhelmed, fed-up woman would do…I cried.

Really, God? I lamented. The bird feeder? 

It’s silly that the bird feeder was my snapping moment. I sat on the back porch and watched as birds came looking for their feeder. “I’m sorry,” I told them. “I’ll get a new one as soon as I can.” As I watched them, I was reminded of the verse in Luke 12: Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. I found comfort in those verses and encouraged myself that all of the stressors were fixable.

Okay, I can do this. I went back inside the house and got to work again. I had several phone calls and a meeting at 1 p.m. Overall, by the end of the day, I was exhausted. As I took the sopping towels and cleaned up as much of the floor as I could, I asked out loud, I wish I could have afforded a better dishwasher. One that doesn’t break after only two years. And then, do you know what God did? He reminded me of 1 Timothy 6. Ben had to finish reviewing his verses, and I grabbed the verse cards for Ben to review.

The first card was 1 Timothy 6:6: But godliness with contentment is great gain.

I felt that holy conviction almost immediately, and yes, I kept reading the next card and the next card.

For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. 

Busted icemakers, leaking dishwasher, broken bird feeder, but I know God wants me to change my outlook. Why? Because it matters. Life happens, but there is so much to be thankful for. I am definitely a work in progress, but I’m grateful God sends me messages throughout the day to remind me that I am loved, and that with Him, I have everything I need.

I pray you have an excellent week!

Janice