1.02.2013

new




Dear Jesus,

I love January.  Really, I do.  But New Year's Resolutions?  We-ell....you know how those always turn out.  Disappointing.  And I don't think I can load anymore guilt on these mommy shoulders, you know?    Yes, you do know.  And that's just one of the things I love about you.  You don't place anything too heavy or burdensome on me, that's just not your way.  Your way is full of grace and I WANT THAT this year.  I want your grace to mark my life.  I want it to fill me, to MOTIVATE me, to strengthen me and make me into your vessel, a dwelling place for your Holy Spirit.  

Sometimes the cares of this life overwhelm me and I feel so much guilt for neglecting my relationship with you.  Sometimes it's not just the cares, it's how I cope with them, where I run to for my nourishment-- media, books, things...  And I let them steal those moments when I could have sat with you and been filled by you.  I really want that to change this year, Jesus.  But I know me and you do too, and I'll need your GRACE to choose YOU.  

This year, this month, this day, help me CHOOSE YOU.  First.  Before I reach for that old numbing comfort, which isn't really bad in itself, just time-stealing and so often leaves me empty when I could have been nourished by your words, your truth, your very self.  

So, maybe I'll write resolutions, maybe I won't.  Maybe I'll accomplish a few, maybe not.  But one thing I will do.  I will love you more than I ever have before.  

Because I'll choose to.

Love,
Your girl

>>>-----------|>



"God’s readiness to give and forgive is now public. Salvation’s available for everyone! We’re being shown how to turn our backs on a godless, indulgent life, and how to take on a God-filled, God-honoring life. This new life is starting right now, and is whetting our appetites for the glorious day when our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, appears. He offered himself as a sacrifice to free us from a dark, rebellious life into this good, pure life, making us a people he can be proud of, energetic in goodness."  Titus 2: 11-14



19 comments:

BARBIE said...

I have a very big AMEN in my spirit! I want that too, to love Him more than I do right now. Praying He shows us both the way.

Anonymous said...

To my DEAR Rubie Joye (that shows that we are truly family-only relatives refer to us by first and middle name).
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this posting (and I prob say that about every posting by you, but hey, you are an excellent writer...) Praying for you, my little Joye, as you maneuver 4 kids + 1 Newborn + a hub + life/hormones,etc. :)

Southern Gal said...

I love your love letter to your Father. Such a sweet spirit.

Linda said...

This is a beautiful, open, and honest conversation between you and the Lord! Yet it says so much of what is on my heart too. I am not very good at making, or keeping resolutions...but I am craving more, and more of Jesus! May we both accomplish a closer walk with Him in this new year!

Love, Linda @ Truthful Tidbits

Unknown said...

This. This letter. This heart letter to Jesus. I needed this. These are seriously words I've been thinking but haven't said to Him, and need to. Sister, THANK YOU. This is such a post to resonate with me. Thank you. xo

Kelly said...

i just love your little space here. your words always make my heart happy.

happy new year joye!

mandi said...

YES!!! So well put. Happy New Year, friend!

Hena Tayeb said...

I think that is a great resolution on its own. I hardly ever make resolutions.. all we can do it to do better, learn more, love more, cherish more.. Happy New Year

Alynne Leigh said...

i love this post! beautiful (:

can't wait to read more of your blog, in the coming months!!

-alynne
designedtoloveblog.com

Unknown said...

Awesome!!

Selina said...

I can completely relate to this. Especially the part about distractions. This is something I've been struggling with for years. May God bless you for being so honest!

Anonymous said...

I completely relate to this. What you said about where we run to for comfort. Hoping this year will bring lots of grace and a lot more of Jesus for both of us!

vintage grey said...

A beautiful letter, and something I definitely need help with! Thanks for sharing and Happy New Year! May it be a year filled with many blessings and sweetness! xo Heather

Jennifer @ JenniferDukesLee.com said...

Motivated by GRACE. Yes, I like that. I want to live that, too.

Anna @ IHOD said...

So happy stopped by IHOD! Your blog is beautiful and you are a girl after my own heart! This post was just how I was feeling. Thank God for grace!
Cheers,
Anna

Mich said...

I loved this. My heart could have written it. Thank you.

SILVIA said...

such an amazing blog
congratulations honey!!!
=D

Mary said...

amen! times a thousand.
xo

J Willis said...

Oh I love this!
I love your inspiring heartfelt blog also
Many blessings this year ahead!!!
;) Janice
- http://sunshine-and-grace.blogspot.com

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