I just finished a wonderful book on contentment, called Calm My Anxious Heart by Linda Dillow. I wanted to drop in and share something I read in that book that convicted me. I thought it might be a blessing to you, too.
On page 13, Mrs. Dillow shares the following list by missionary wife, Ella Spees. This lady had found contentment by striving never to do some things:
- Never allow yourself to complain about anything – not even the weather.
- Never picture yourself in any other circumstances or someplace else.
- Never compare your lot with another’s.
- Never allow yourself to wish this or that had been otherwise.
- Never dwell on tomorrow – remember that is God’s not ours!
This smote me between the eyes! I am working on them, and so far, I’m not doing too well. But as long as the Lord gives me breath, I will try. I believe that making the above “nevers” a part of my life will be an important key to finding lasting contentment. With the Lord’s help, I never want to do these things.
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The only thing I would add to that is that looking at other situations and circumstances can be good. For example, many times when I get to feeling sorry for myself I look at where I could be (negatively) and see how much God has given me. This often brings contentment.
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Wow! That is a convicting list! I agree that we shouldn't complain, but I'm afraid I have a deeply-ingrained habit.
Thanks for sharing.
Love,
Mother
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I often do the same thing!!!! I also do that for my kids and show them how much worse it COULD be.
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this book looks like something I would like to read.
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Very convicting! Thanks for sharing!
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That is so convicting! Thank-you so much for sharing!!
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