Last month I wrote about the conflicting emotions I was having over being in a great place (specifically, a free trip to Disney) while others I knew were suffering. There are people I really love going through some extremely difficult situations right now. Meanwhile, my family is in a good place--and I feel guilty. This morning I read a quote by Beth Moore that shed more light on the subject:
"When God intervenes and we get a chance to know we're blessed and to feel blessed, nothing is more appropriate than seizing the happy moment...One of the hardest challenges about taking advantage of a God-given moment of happiness is the guilt of knowing it coincides with someone else's sadness. No, we don't flaunt our light in someone else's darkness, but surely we can find a way to dip ourselves in the bubble bath of a second's bliss when it comes. Even if all we do is lean our heads back in the sunshine of our soul's Sabbath and take a minute to feel the glad emotion, it is meant by God to be medicine for our weary souls." -from Esther: It's Tough Being a Woman by Beth Moore (page 194)
I love that description...the sunshine of our soul's Sabbath. Maybe it is the fantastic Fall weather we are currently enjoying after weeks of rainy days, but the idea of relishing the sunshine resonates with me.
I also appreciate the reminder that is Ok to be happy. In this world we will have trouble. Frankly, it is the challenge of dark times that makes us appreciate the times of blessing even more. We will all have our seasons of relative ease as well those of struggle. All the more reason to enjoy the periods of rest and rejuvenation in between!
3 comments:
Well said! Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-17) Thanks for your wonderful blog!!
I love reading your blog! You are insightful and inspiring! This post reminds me of a bible verse that was emailed to me a few days ago. Ecclesiastes 5:19 says, "When God give any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy in his work--this is a gift of God." God intends for you to be happy and enjoy your moments....this is why he gave you the gift. Have a great day!
Right now we are going through a difficult season. This is encouraging to me because I know my happy day will come again. I do find joy in the midst of these trials because I can trust in the Lord, but I'm looking forward to the moment when I can look up and enjoy the sunshine of my souls sabbath.
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