Knowing yourself

Knowing what I like and don’t like is easy.

(This picture I really like.)

Knowing what movies, books, and magazines I enjoy is pretty simple.

Knowing my heart is a different matter.

“Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but only that which will benefit those who listen.” Eph. 4:29

If my heart is good and kind why is it so difficult to follow this verse?

If my heart is gentle and teachable why do I struggle with correction?

If I have peace and joy in my heart why can a few things going wrong send me into stress?

Easy.

The heart is not a formula and character isn’t a recipe.

It takes effort
time
patience
perseverance
love
choice
And most of all
God
to change the heart.

And the best thing is
it takes a
Lifetime!

So as I pray about the words I wish I had spoken
and
again admit the flaws in my behavior
and
seek another opportunity to love those I find unlovely
I ask the Lord to shine His love on the places where I am hurting,
mend the broken,
restore my trust in others,
and forgive my unwillingness…

And smile.
God is patient,
kind,
faithful,
gentle,
compassionate,
slow to anger
and abounding in love.

And with His help
knowing
myself,
I will be those things too.