“Don’t Count the Days – Make the Days Count” ~ by Christina

Do you ever have days that just don’t go the way you want them to?

Do you have days that drag by and you feel like they are wasted?

Do you have times when you think I will do “abc” once I get “xyz” done?

Are there times when you don’t like what is going on in your day and push against everything with a bad attitude?

For some of us it is our tendency to lean toward seeing the glass half empty. This kind of “stinkin-thinkin” will trickle through our everyday tasks and attitude. I am guilty of this kind of thinking from time to time and honestly, it almost always takes me to a dark place and sometimes serious depression. God doesn’t want us to live our lives outside of his will but he allows us to make choices that take us directions that lead us back to him.

The truth is, God has given us exactly what we need when we need it.  His timing is always right. God gives us a new day every morning to look toward him and find the joy each day, and for that matter each moment we make choices.

I would encourage you to think about your circumstances and think about whether you are making the day count or not. What I mean by that is, we have a specific number of days on this earth and instead of just going through the motions and “counting the days”, find ways to make differences to make each day count.

Simple Ideas:
* Start each day in prayer thanking God for the day ahead
* Take time to read even a short devotion. YouVersion has great daily devotions for free and easily at your fingertips. You can find it as an app on your phone “HolyBible” or online at my.bible.com.
* Look for people throughout your day to encourage or just share a compliment with.
* Make a list of people to periodically send a note of encouragement and thinking of you.
* Set goals and take baby steps toward one goal.
* Take the time for self-care. If you don’t take care of you, you won’t have what you need to give to others.

Always continue to keep looking for God throughout your day. You will see him at work and that you are part of his plan…step in tune with him!

Psalm 119
Joyful are people of integrity,
Who follow the instructions of the LORD.
Joyful are those who obey his laws
And search for him with all their hearts.
They do not compromise with evil,
And they walk only in his paths.
You have charged us
To keep your commandments carefully.
Oh, that my actions would consistently
Reflect your decrees!
Then I will not be ashamed
When I compare my life with your commands.
As I learn your righteous regulations,
I will thank you by living as I should!
I will obey your decrees.
Please don’t give up on me!

How can a young person stay pure?
By obeying your word.
I have tried hard to find you –
Don’t let me wander from your commands.
I have hidden your word in my heart,
That I might not sin against you.
I praise you, O LORD;
Teach me your decrees.
I have recited aloud
All the regulations you have given us.
I have rejoiced in your laws
As much as in riches.
I will study your commandments
And reflect on your ways.
I will delight in your decrees
And not forget your word.