My absurdly gracious maternity leave is finally coming to a close. As I pray and fight Martyn for him to take the bottle before Tuesday, I'm also recounting the wonderful things I've learned in the past almost 6 months:
- The sovereign God who upholds the universe has regard for tiny new lives. He is so merciful to touch little ones with the kindness of healing.
- The feeling of being upheld by the powerful prayers of the saints, and the sweet joy of bearing together the burdens of the church body
- My mom was right. I would crave korean seaweed soup for every meal for weeks after delivering baby.
- Every conversation, every need that needs to be met, every conflict, every hour is an opportunity to glorify God. If we resist Satan in it, he will flee from us.
- My Father who sees my righteous deeds in secret will save up for me an eternal reward. I need not squander that reward on earth by recounting those deeds to my husband or others in hopes of receiving the praise of man.
- After extensive study, it is indeed not clear exactly what that eternal reward will be or how it will work. But what is clear is this, God cares about our heart and our deeds of obedience. He will reward them. There is a crown of life and righteousness and glory awaiting us, and we don't deserve it..
- All of those righteous deeds are from His hand. One night, Martyn cries and I look at him lovingly with a heart full of joy to rock him as he screams. Another night, I grumble and complain with hatred in my heart. The difference is prayer and a humble heart to know that I must ask God to continue preparing good works for me.
- Do not fall into the trap of asking if I deserve a break or if others in the household are not doing enough. Jesus my Master washed the feet of sinners and died on a wretched cross for me. I am to gladly serve with a heart filled with unworthy joy.
- George Whitefield is, like, a really good preacher.
- Repent faster. Speak truth to myself faster. Break the delusion of self-righteousness faster. There isn't enough time in the day for my wretchedness.
- Babies have issues. They are tiny human beings that are underdeveloped in ways that give them many ailments. My joy and trust in the Lord must remain steadfast through each momentary suffering.
- Crockpots are awesome.
