True Fulfillment

There are so many things in this life that I find fulfilling.

I find fulfillment in being a wife.
Proverbs 31:10-12 A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good not harm all the days of her life.

I find fulfillment in being a mother.
Psalm 127:3 Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.

I find fulfillment in maintaining my home.
Proverbs 31:17 She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.

I find fulfillment in being busy running errands, crafting, blogging or cooking.
Proverbs 19:15 Laziness brings on deep sleep, and the shiftless go hungry.

I find fulfillment in being a friend.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Two are better than one, because they have better return for their labor; if either one of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.

I find fulfillment in being a big sister.
Philippians 1:3 I thank my God every time I remember you.

I find fulfillment in the relationship I have with my dad and my mom.
Ephesians 6:1-2 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. "Honor your father and mother" -which is the first commandment with a promise-
Proverbs 31:28a Her children arise and call her blessed.

These things in life are blessings, as you can see.  That's the way God intended them be.  But... we live in a world corrupted by sin.  Husbands and wives argue.  Children disobey.  We run short on time and patience and are often quick to anger and slow to love.  We put ourselves before others.  Loved ones are called to their Eternal Home and we miss them.  Good health comes and goes.

Yes, these things are truly blessings but they do not last.  Not always.  Not perfectly.  Not 100% of the time.

Do you know where you can find TRUE fulfillment?  The unwavering, lasting, eternal kind?  You'll ONLY find it when our Heavenly Father speaks to you.

His love is constant.  His promises are binding.  He is the same... Yesterday. Today. Forever.

If you are searching for fulfillment, look to Him:

• Attend worship services, as commanded (the 4th commandment).  God loves us and wants only what is best for us.  The blessings he provides are far greater than the hour of sleep you're missing out on.
• Exudos 20:8 Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 
• Hebrews 10:24a&25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another- and all the more as you see the Day approaching

• Open your bible.
• Psalm 119:15-16 I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your Word.
• Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword,  it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow;it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart
• Deuteronomy 8:3b ...man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the Lord.
• Pray.
• Is this a daunting idea for you?  Try this acronym I learned from a Sunday School Teacher

• A - Adoradion.  Praise God for who and what He is.
• C - Confession.  Confess your sins before Him with a sincere heart.
• T - Thanksgiving.  Thank Him for all He has done for you.
• S - Supplication.  Ask God to supply your needs and the desires of your heart.

• Psalm 116:1 I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy.

This time of year is something I long for and look forward to for months.  I cherish special memories and enjoy creating new ones.  My love for this season and celebrating my Savior's birth is part of who I am.  I'm not oblivious to the fact that so many struggle through this time of year the most.  It's my prayer that God spoke to you today and brought you some encouragement.

Happy Holiday Season and Merry Christmas!
Alyssa