Trying to change the way I think, one thought at a time...

Upon seeing my reflection, I wish I was thinner...

*God, thank you that I have an able body, that is whole and with all 5 senses.  Thank you that I have a body that can birth and nurse babies, hold my husband, hug my mom.  Thank you for the beauty which surrounds me that I am able to feel, see, touch, taste and smell.  I am so grateful for this body.*

As I listen to my children bicker...

*Thank you God, that my children have each other.  I pray they will always be close.  Please help me teach them in a calm way how to share and enjoy each other.*

When I am frustrated with my husband...

*Lord, you have given me a precious gift in Kevin.  Teach me how to respect and honor him.   Please help me hold my tongue when I want to lash out, and help me put his needs before my wants.  Encourage me to speak kindly and warmly, and to show him I love him.*

As I compare myself with others...

*I am thankful to have friends and family in my life with so many gifts.  Please hold me up as I look to their talents, so I can learn from them, not be downhearted.   Please open my eyes for me to see my own gifts, and encourage me to use them for Your Glory.  Remind me that I don't have to keep a perfect house, make a lot of money or even maintain a thriving garden to be a "success."  The person you want me to be, I know, has nothing to do with any of those things.*

When I lay my head on the pillow tonight, I want to ask forgiveness for the times today when I did not make the right decision.  Whether it was reading emails instead of reading my devotional, or being impatient with my children...thank you God, that you so lovingly forgive me.  I want to celebrate all of the good things that happened today....thank you Lord for precious time with my family and friends.  Thank you for the beautiful day that we spent outside enjoying Your beauty.  I am grateful for Kevin working so I don't have to - thank you for his job and Kevin's heart for his family.   Thank you for another day with the people I love.

Instead of having regrets or guilt at the end of the day, I want only gratitude and a desire to live up to the person God wants me to be.