Friday 29 July 2011

Working through the night

As I am sure you have noticed I haven't been blogging very regularly for some time now. Largely this is due to life being too good! I'm very ambitious with my time, or should I say overly optimistic? I do so much, and so often things like blogging, craft or sorting out the pile of filing, end up on the back burner.
However, if you look back to see the times when I have blogged, it is often nearing midnight or in the early hours. There are those times when, I've still had so much to do and it's already late but I've been inspired to post something and so it just can't (it simply cannot!) be postponed.
Put it down to my determined nature, or could that be 'I've decided I'm going to do it, so I have to do it now!' There are many times each month when I am up late, determined to get done whatever project I am working on. This is what our scripture focus for today is talking about:
18 She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night.
We also see here a woman who knows that she does a good job, she doesn't begrudge that it may take a long time, and others know they can trust that she will get the job done.

Sunday 17 July 2011

Ready for the task in-hand

I always read the scripture that I'm studying in several translations and a commentary so to get a fuller picture of what is intended for the reader. Today's reading is one which immediately meant something to me for what I am going through now, but when I read it in other translations it had a fuller meaning. Isn't that interesting? 
Look here:
She does her work with energy, and her arms are strong. (New Century Version)
She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. (New International Version)
She girds herself with strength, And strengthens her arms. (New King James Version)
The above were helpful and inspiring, but did somewhat make me think that I ought to be doing more bicep curls and triceps dips!


Whereas the following, in more simple language (what does that say?) spoke to me directly:
First thing in the morning, she dresses for work, rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started. (The Message)
She girds herself with strength [spiritual, mental, and physical fitness for her God-given task] and makes her arms strong and firm. (Amplified Version)
My faith tells me that we all have a God given purpose. Sometimes that purpose can be difficult, even painful. Last year was really difficult for me, I almost quit teaching, but I'm glad to say I didn't. And it may sound trite but I know the experience has made me stronger.
This year has been brilliant, and although not without it's struggles, it has given me back the confidence to go forward. 
Tomorrow I am going to be jumping up in the morning, dressing for work, eager to get started for I am meeting my new class for the next academic year. I already know them and my team of colleagues so I know how blessed I am. And because teaching is teaching and all that it involves, the highs and the lows, I am praying that the Father builds with strength [spiritual, mental, and physical fitness for her God-given task] and makes my arms strong and firm.
Amen. 
xxx