DO

That’s my theme word lately. From the beginning of this year I have been gearing up mentally for the life change of going from 2 to 3 kids. Everyone warns that it’s the hardest transition since you and your husband are outnumbered and since you only have 2 hands…and for a variety of other reasons which I am soon to find out, I’m sure. I certainly haven’t hit the worst of it yet since my mom just left Friday, but nonetheless have been counseling myself with encouragement from 2 sources. One I read a few months back and the other I read many years ago.


The first article is called “Do what you Can” by Don Whitney. I was challenged by the mom’s determination to have spiritual priorities in the midst of a hectic home life with young kids. I might not have the time I did in my single adulthood to color code theme words in the book of the Bible I’m studying, but I can read a verse here and there and meditate on it and pray through it. Something is better than nothing.


The second resource is one I first read back in college quoted in a book by Elisabeth Elliot. It’s called “Do the Next Thing.” When I’m tempted to get overwhelmed with life and my to do list and discipline issues and household management issues, it is good to remember just to take the next step. I don’t need to think about tomorrow. I just need to do the next thing God has for me right now. What a life simplifier that is!


Of course, I would be remiss to focus merely on the DOing, since, as Don Whitney points out in his article, “God does not love us more when we do more, nor less when we do less. He accepts us, not because of what we do for Him, but because of what He’s done for us in Christ (emphasis mine).” I DO because of what I AM. Accepted in Him. Now that promise gives this weary mom some MUCH needed rest.