Spiritual Disciplines

Discipline is one of the Spiritual habits that strengthens and deepens our relationship with God.

Since I'm not working and neither is my husband, I have had difficulty with my normally well disciplined habits. For instance, I wanted to be more faithful to writing my blog, but I haven't written since August. Time just marches on and I have procrastinated. The reason I finally am writing today: my husband went to church to help some men build a ramp for a disabled person.

When he is home, I find it more difficult to spend my alone time. We are enjoying this time together, yet, with the economic downturn, he has not been able to find a job. I'm so glad he decided to join this group of men and do something productive.

The idea of getting up everyday and not having a purpose to get us going is hard to adjust to. I've always been a person who wanted to make a difference. He, too, likes to reach out and be productive. In retirement, we have not quite found our focus. I'm sure we will eventually.

Another discipline that I have struggled with is eating, but having a more seditary life makes this an even greater challenge. In the last year, I had knee surgery. During the time for diagnosing the problem and then waiting for surgery and recovery, I have gained significant weight and am having trouble losing it.

My hunger is for God's direction and guidance, but I have too often turned to food for comfort.

I learned this lesson earlier in my life and lost about 30 lbs. I hope I can regain the discipline to do it again. I know in my heart and mind this is the problem. Yet, having too much time on my hands, I've been unable to do the necessary discipline of my habits.

I know that God can and will help me, but I must do my part. God can change us, but we must be willing to yield to him. I pray for God's strength to control my choices. I pray for help in my surrender to the one who has always given me hope and strength as well as amazing love.