Looking back

It is easy to get discouraged in life. 

So many mountains to conquer. 
So many trials to endure.
So many things to learn and grow in.

Even in the midst of joyful times, it can be overwhelming when we think that every moment we are to be learning and growing closer to and more like the Lord. 

A new baby brings joy and challenge.
A new marriage brings joy and challenge.
A new friendship brings joy and challenge. 

It is easy to feel like we are never going to get it.  We are never going to change.  We are never going to learn.  And yet, we do. 

I just spend a bit of time looking through a journal from several years ago.  It started because I was looking for something -a small detail- and in order to find it, I had to wade through many entries from that season of my life.  It was a good season -one full of life and joy. 

As I read, I noticed two things...
1.  Even in the midst of the good of that season, there was hard times and areas where I was struggling.  It was a financially hard time as well as emotionally. 
2.  I really have changed!  Good changes.  Growth changes.  Maturing changes.

Its true.  Things I used to struggle with (attitudes, actions, emotions) have been replaced with new struggles.  Some I have overcome, some I have simply avoided.  Many that I still struggle with daily.  Interestingly, there are also things I used to delight in that I dont nearly as much anymore.  The key is remaining on that uphill incline -always moving onward and upward. 

Being able to look back and see where I was compared to where I am now is a blessing and a source of encouragement to me today.


♥