Blessed Coming In & Going Out

"Do not let your adornment be merely outward--arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel-- rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God." 1 Peter 3:3-4

I need to clarify my post yesterday. In no way am I under the belief that true beauty comes in a bottle. My reflection on my morning routine was not meant to be taken spiritually. Though our lives, as we live them, are open to that aspect at all times, I by no means feel that outer beauty is to be looked upon as true beauty. I do not even claim to be beautiful on the outside. Please know it is not my intention to make anyone feel as if they are "less than" if they do not do their hair and make up everyday. I really was just putting a voice to some thoughts on how I let myself go over the past few months. It may seem I am apologizing for what I wrote, I am not. I do apologize for any misunderstanding in how I wrote it. I went through my day yesterday feeling fresh and energized. With the unique struggles we face here, sometimes daily, I allow a coat of lipstick to lighten my heart, and I think that is just fine with my Heavenly Father...as long as I understand that TRUE beauty comes from within...which I do, but did not make clear yesterday...for that I do apologize. Sometimes I ramble and think everyone just "knows" me. I need to be more careful. Do not think anyone was hateful to me on this. That is not the case.

Something absolutely wonderful happened yesterday. I won't go into details, because they are not mine to share, but I will show you this. The inside cover of my daughter's bible now reads:

Charlotte Grace

accepted Jesus as her Savior

and gave her life over to God on

May 8, 2008

She told me afterward (she did this on her own in her room last night) that she felt a funny feeling in her tummy. It made her want to "sing". I told her that was the joy of the Lord. When she heard that she sobbed (happy tears). That precious little girl had never felt joy before.

She also shared with me that she felt like her past was forgotten. She was new. I am praising God for His grace and His mercy.

Here is my thought for the day:

"The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore." Psalm 121:8