5 Reasons to Be Thankful

The last couple of months have been full of growth and changes at the Prairie Parsonage.  It all started with me realizing that I had an area of stark unrepented sin in my life.  It's not that I think I don't sin, it's just that the Lord brought attention to something that I needed to change: my negative self talk. 
I'm not sure if I am the only woman who struggles with this (my guess is no), but I can be very hard on myself.  It wasn't until I realized that this is actually a sin.  God does not want me, His child, to think less of myself.  Yes, I need to take a good look at who I am an try to improve it, to become more like Him, but that certainly didn't mean not valuing myself as the worthy child of the King that I am.
Long story short, I realized that I was not using my gifts to the best of my ability.  So, I quit my job and I am now able to spend more time with my family.  I have stopped being a "yes" woman when I know that something isn't right and although it is a process, I am slowing learning to stand up for myself.  I realize that this isn't always coming out in a godly way, but I know that through God's grace and leading, I will learn to do this in a way that honors Him.

So, this thanksgiving, I am thankful for several things:

1. I am thankful that our faith is a journey.  We are never "finished", but rather the Lord continues to show us areas where He is able to work.  It may not be easy, but it is definately worth it.

2. I am thankful for two healthy children who I get to spend more time with.  I am thankful for a little girl who loves to eat her baby cereal (a new development this week) and an adventurous 2 year old who loves life to the fullest.

3. I am thankful for a loving husband to support me in this transition and who is willing to accept extra side jobs if necessary to cover our family's expenses.  He has encouraged me to take some time to figure out what I am really supposed to do with my life. 

4. I am thankful for my parents who have offered me countless hours of listening support and guidance.  I don't care how old a girl gets, she always needs her mom and dad!

5. I am thankful that God loves me more than I can fathom.  He loves me more than I love my kids, which seems impossible, but yet I know it is true.  I am thankful that He isn't finished with me yet!

What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving?