There is no substitute for peace. As I went through all the pricks and prods of needles this past week, I can tell you that remaining calm is the secret to less pain. Uncontrolled anxiety just makes your heart race, your breathing shorter and your nerves more sensitive. You have to remember that 'it is for your good.' You can work yourself into a panic, that's not helpful. I thought about my 4yr old friend, MacKenzie, telling me the week before that she doesn't cry over needles because 'I'm strong.'
What is composure? The self-controlled state of mind. ''Don't let a bad situation bring out the worst in you, Choose to be positive and be the strong person God created you to be.' Not if, but when I was far from calm and collected.....forgive my frustrations.
''How do we maintain composure? By remembering that “the Lord is at hand” (Phil. 4:5); He is near. Our Lord is standing just outside the door ready to burst through and turn everything that’s wrong right-side up. Then this world and all its troubles will become the kingdom of our Lord, and “the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea” (Hab. 2:14).'' [odb.org]
I love that verse in Habakkuk. And how you allow God to use the difficulties of your life to encourage others...
ReplyDeleteYou can send me this blog again when I am in the hospital, and remind me of your composure. I have a bad case of "white coat syndrome". Dad
ReplyDeleteI am so glad that I sat down and wrote to you before I read this wonderful post, confessing that my complaints of yesterday were ingratitude for the great blessings that God has bestowed on me, The lack of composure that I felt all day.was merely allowing the peace of God during stressful situations to slip through my fingers. What an appropriate, timely word for me! Sometimes I think you sneak into my brain before you write.
ReplyDeleteLove you Angie! Thanks for being an example of the quote at the top of this blog. Have a great week!
ReplyDeleteLove,
Mary
What a wonderful post! Maintaining my composure is sometimes one of my greatest challenges. You are such an inspiration to me. So glad you are better too....God was watching over you and taking care of you, as always. Hugs, my friend.....T.
ReplyDelete