When God Puts You in Time Out

When I was a little girl, I wasn't much of a trouble maker. But, I do admit, that I was not an angel, and I was sent to my room on more than one occasion. I remember always being so mad when mom or dad would send me to the silence of my bed to "think about what I had done." Little did I know, they actually knew what they were doing! I would sit there and cry that it was "unfair" for whatever reason. I always told them that I would never send my children to their rooms... I also told them I would let my children have candy whenever they wanted... ice cream for breakfast even!

Well, not having any children of my own yet, but having learned from the disciplines of my parents (and babysitting sugar-highed kids), my heart has changed. I thank them for being stearn, and even strict sometimes, with me. I am so grateful for the moments I was forced to reflect on my bad behavior. My parents did an excellent job in parenting!

These past few weeks have been those of reflection for me. Not for any one thing in particular, but nonetheless more of a "time out" enforced by the Almighty. My friends may say that I'm "in a funk," but I know from past experience that He is changing my heart. I am so guilty of filling my time to overflowing with distractions, that I do not sit down and fall in love with my savior! God, however, knows better. He is the one who created discipline and parenting, so it only makes sense that he would have me metaphorically walking through a lonely desert, or sitting in my room on my bed all alone crying my eyes out. It is completely bittersweet. As I slowly lay down my will and learn more about His, I am amazed at how completely in control He is of my life!

I went to the valley this weekend to visit a girl friend I hadn't seen in about 3 years. We had a great time catching up! I woke up a few hours earlier than her & her roommate yesterday morning (mostly due to the fact that I was in an unfamiliar place), and decided to use the time to read. I had been set up! God knew I was going to end up there with a few hours of quiet time. I had no where else to go, but sit on the bed and whine that it's "unfair" that I had to spend time with Him rather than my friend I was there visiting!!! Wow, am I ever a selfish brat!! The longer I sat in my "time out" the more He revealed how much He truly cherishes the time I spend with Him.

I can't believe that it took that much for me to realize I needed to sit down and focus on my relationship with my savior! However, I am so grateful that He is in control and promises to watch over me! I want to be His hands and feet here, but until I learn to obey, he's just going to keep throwing me back in time out!!!