February 4th

I grew up with one of the biggest worriers imaginable; my mother. It seems that if she didn't have something to worry about, she would start to worry about the lack of her ability to worry. I learned as a very young child that this lifestyle sucks the joy out of life. I also remember thinking that it reflected negatively on her trust in God. She was a lady who believed in the power of prayer and that you need to trust in God yet her constant worrying about every insignificant issues seems to be contrary to that trust. This always created conflict for me.

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Perhaps our worries come from not understanding our priorities of seeking him first. I also know some who I would consider fairly "religious" who struggle with the issue of worry. Are some people simply predisposed to worry?

I choose to take today's reading as an affirmation that God is in control of my life and that worrying doesn't help me nor show glory to God. Much easier said, than done.

The Saba kids will be reading this devotional tomorrow...

I'm pretty sure mom knows this passage by heart since she would use this passage to give me peace during my teen years.
I have been studying the fruits of the spirit this year and have learned that the fruits of the spirit were written in a specific order for a reason. In this case peace comes after love and joy. In the recent months I have found it easier to have peace because I have first been seeking/practicing love and joy. Always easier said then done.

Tricia, I wish I was in your bible study. I have never thought of the significance of the order of the fruits. Interesting!