As I sat with Jesus last week and asked what He would have me fast for Lent- it was very clear that His focus was on an area of my life that He has been interested in for weeks and months now. I am self-gratifying and very undisciplined. If I want to eat a brownie at 9am, I go for it :) Sad, but true.And it isn't about weight- it's about beating my body- like Paul, running in such a way as to obtain the prize...temperate in all things...disciplining my body lest I become disqualified... I Cor 9:24-27 Oh, it's a hard word.
And so I chose to give up refined sugar (but He knows me, and specifically told me not to go crazy reading labels- everything has hidden sugar- He wants my eyes fixed on Him and not sugar)- obvious sugar- not adding it to my coffee, no cookies or brownies, etc.
Little did I know that my boys would get S.I.C.K. and I would be giving up sleep for Lent too.
At least, I didn't give up coffee for Lent.
After a night without sleep it's hard not to crave that big hunk of chocolate. And I've caved already this Lenten season. But there is grace for weary mamas. Today as I begin this tired day- I'm fixing these verses before me:
The law of the LORD is perfect,
reviving the soul.
The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.
The precepts of the LORD are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the LORD are radiant,
giving light to the eyes.
The fear of the LORD is pure,
enduring forever.
The ordinances of the LORD are sure
and altogether righteous. 
They are more precious than gold,
than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey,
than honey from the comb.
By them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.
Keep your servant also from willful sins;
may they not rule over me.
be pleasing in your sight,
O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.
-Psalm 19: 7-11, 13-14
His word will keep you- no matter what you're fasting from.
Beautiful post, Kelly, and so true. I love Psalm 19. God bless you in your endeavors as a young mother. I remember those days.
ReplyDeleteFasting from sleep makes fasting from anything else even harder. But stand firm; I trust the Lord will honor your desire to put him above all, even sugar. And hopefully will return your sleep along with the health of your children. Hang in there, sweet mother! You're doing well!
ReplyDeleteGod bless you as you fast and take care of your children. Enjoyed your post.
ReplyDeleteKelly, What a beautiful post. It can be so hard to fast something. I have been wanting to do this and like you my fast will probably be coffee, sugar or chocolate. I don´t know much about Lent but I will read on it.
ReplyDeleteI loved the verses you quoted. I am going to write them in my diary and pray and see what God wants me to fast.