Habit 2

I have seen with my own eyes and experienced with all of my senses what it is to be in need. I have traveled to both Kenya, Africa and Port Au Prince, Haiti and my heart has been broken for what breaks God's heart.

What has amazed me the most about the people in those countries is how BIG their faith is. They rely on God for everything, and trust that He will provide no matter how dim their realities look. Talk about life-changing priorities. Here I complain about being hungry if I haven't had a good lunch, but they don't complain. About anything. They are happy for what they have and feel blessed. They have so little, but they cherish what they do have and know that it is from God. And they thank Him.

That is why I have carefully chosen my second new habit of 2011. Habit 2 is going to be the most difficult of the 3 I am afraid, but I am committed to it.

I am not going to complain.

For me, the act of complaining is NOT just a statement (a whine, really) that I am not getting my way. No, for me it opens the door for discontentment. My thoughts begin to travel, and my sinful heart is swept so easily into feeling sorry for myself or wishing I had a different set of circumstances.

Sadly, it's a never-ending cycle. And every situation can find its way down the path of discontentment if allowed to do so.

I am thankful for the Spirit who so gently rebukes and reveals the ugliness inside of my own heart. And who forgives me and reminds me to count my blessings.

I am extraordinarily blessed. And I won't complain lest my heart forget.