A Wednesday lesson

Jase’s new mug.

I drove to my allergist’s office to get my shot today, only they were closed.

They’ve had a sign on the door for weeks announcing the closure, but I ignored it.

Why?

I don’t get my shots on Tuesday or Wednesday, so it didn’t apply to me, or so I thought.

The problem is, I had a migraine on Monday and didn’t go on my regular day.

Since I hadn’t taken note of this closure I drove the hour distance in our old truck only to discover my error.

I felt like the drawing of the lady slapping herself on the forehead with the palm of one hand.

Both Anne and Jase had accompanied me, as they wanted to be dropped off at Hobby Lobby.

I’d checked the store’s hours before leaving home and I dropped both at the front door before heading to the office for my immunotherapy.

As I walked back to the truck, my thoughts kept running me into the ground for the wasted trip, the unnecessary gas used, loss of schooling time, and pretty much anything else.

But I knew that wasn’t honoring the Lord.

To clarify, I don’t think God is to blame for me ignoring the sign or for driving an hour to turn around and drive back.

But I do believe God uses my mistakes to teach me and I knew beating myself up over the error would only rob me of the perspective to see what God was doing.

So, I asked God to forgive me for my carelessness and to teach me through the mistake.

It took a while before I could look backwards and see anything good from my error.

Several good things have happened:

* Both Anne and Jase bought something they wanted at the store. (Jase’s mug is pictured.)

* I was able to save my husband a trip to the bank.

* The bank is in a nearby town I’m unfamiliar with, so I gained knowledge I probably wouldn’t have otherwise.

* I was able to be real with my kids and admit although I’m disappointed with myself, it’s an opportunity to learn.

* The weather is beautiful and I enjoyed the countryside on our drive home.

The best part about it all is the cycle from my past is broken.

I made a mistake, but I’m not caught in an unhealthy response of running myself down because of it, rather I’m thankful.

Because God truly is working through all things for good.

Romans 8:28 NKJV — And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for being God Almighty. Thank You for Your Sovereignty. Lord, I know You are using these things I find annoying to hone my heart and help me not to fall into unhealthy attitudes or actions. I know You are working all things together for good, even my moments of carelessness. Lord, please help me to be careful, mindful, responsible, and honorable. Please help me to walk with You in understanding and wisdom. Lord, I know You are worthy of all my trust. Your ways are perfect and Your truth is amazing. Thank You for all Your patience with me. Thank You for providing so much and showing me what I need to work on, surrendering to You my expectations. Thank You for loving and saving my soul! I love You, Jesus. Amen.