Self-control is a big thing we're working on here with Grant, and I think he's really getting better at it, but it takes practice. Grant had been making some noise (I can't even explain it) and wouldn't stop...lack of self-control and listening. We got it under control in front of us, but when he went to bed he started up again. I didn't go in and tell him to stop, but the next morning we talked with him about respecting us and having self-control.
I also talked with him about how we need to try to do our best all the time and not just when other people are watching, because God sees us all the time and knows our hearts. Grant was very surprised I could hear the noises in his bedroom, and that God could hear him too. It got me thinking though, am I always the same person when no one is watching? I don't think this necessarily has to apply to my actions, but to my thoughts too.
The greatest commandment from God is to: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is not commandment greater than these." (Mark 12: 30-31)
I'd like to say that I'm always transparent, but my thoughts aren't always a great example of "loving my neighbor" when I'm annoyed, upset, or mad. God knows my thoughts and I can't metaphorically lock myself in my room and think what I want. I really want to be practicing what I'm preaching with Grant. I want to have self-control and know that Jesus' death on the cross has freed me from the power sin has in my life, and that includes my thoughts.
Our thoughts can influence our day so much too. If I let negative thoughts invade my head, I can tell you right now my outward attitude will definitely reflect that, but if I work to love my neighbor, all the time, it will definitley change my day for the better. If I work to see things others' way and their perspective it really is loving my neighbor and showing God's love through me too. I hope this perspective encourages you today too.
I decided to give my blanket scarf another try and tie it a bit differently too. I got the inspiration from this pin and tied it like this. I'm a big fan of this combo and think the scarf adds some great interest.
Dress: Gap almost exact
Jacket: JCP similar
Scarf: Style This Life (look on etsy)
Bracelets: Stella and Dot
Booties: Wanted similar
Loving the stripes with the plaid scarf!
ReplyDeleteLove the way you tied the scarf which looks awesome with the versatile striped dress and olive military jacket.
ReplyDeleteI often remind my daughter that it is important to remember that Jesus is standing right next to her. Would you say or do certain things if you could actually see Him? Fabulous pattern mixing today Ginny!! Susan
ReplyDeleteI like the way you tied the scarf- I will have to try it!
ReplyDeleteXO,
Gentry
Girl Meets Bow
I love the scarf and how it's tied! I need to try mine out again.
ReplyDeleteI often say to my students. character is what you do when no one is looking. Such an important thing to remember
That outfit is adorable with the booties and the scarf. I love those items together.
ReplyDeleteThere you go again Ginny! I am not always the same person when "no one" is watching despite explicitly making Matthew 22:37-39 my personal mission statement. I feel so pushed toward right even as it goes against what I want which is a wrong thing. Thank you for the encouragement!
ReplyDeleteI was just thinking I need to wear my striped dress again, but needed some inspiration and look what you wear! I really like this look with your jacket! Very cute!
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