The Best Rewards, are from the Battles Hardest Fought

Ruth.

She gave up everything

Expecting nothing,

and God honored her.*

One of my heros is Ruth. 

Ruth became the daughter in law of Rahab- a prostitute, 

 She became the great-grandmother of a King. 

She left her wealthy family,

 to stay with her poor mother-in-law.

She honored, obeyed, and loved her mother-in-law,

to the point of marrying a man to give her mother-in-law a descendent.

Ruth has taught me much:

-not to think so highly of myself

-commitments are life-long

-respect the people God has put in my life 

-trusting God starts with fear, pain, separation from what we love and ends with peace, joy, , patience, kindness, inner strength and loving beyond our own ability. 

*excerpt from Ruth by Francine Rivers

Mindless or Mindful?

Last night a coworker ask me if I was hot with my fleece on while working. Instantly I replied negatively. After thinking about her question, I realized I was warmer than usual (although usual happens to be icey). She asked if I think before I answer or if I say the first thing that comes to mind.

How often do I, or do you just answer? Without thinking, processing, wisely considering?

Often, no harm no foul.

Sometimes; damage is done. Often due to careless words. 

Wisdom is not in the speediness of the answer, but in the thought---the careful preparation of words.