I have an early shift tomorrow, but I can't sleep. Maybe it's all the chai I just drank, or maybe it's all the thoughts swirling in my head...probably both. Either way, I'm up.

This week has been fairly productive, in terms of relationship. Amidst quarrels and hard moments, there have been hearts and burdens shared - loads made lighter. Can't believe the great chances for talks that were opened up by that honesty.
Chances, too, for reconciliation. Though far from complete - steps are being made toward it, and that is so good. At the same time, lots of heart ache for relationships that have yet to be reconciled. In all of this, I am learning to be patient, forgiving (of others and even myself), faithful and genuine.
Even in incredible heartache, I am seeing how Christ longs for us to be reconciled to him. If I am longing for repaired relationship, how much more does he - who loves us so desperatley - long for restored relationship with us!

Moving day is coming incredibly fast. It's hard to believe I'll be a resident of Crofton, and of the Jones household, in under two weeks. GAH. It's exciting...I need to PACK!

"For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want." (Galatians 5:17)

There is a constant struggle between the old nature and the new in every believer's heart. The old nature is very active and loses no opportunity of plying all the weapons of its deadly armory against new-born grace. On the other hand, the new nature is ever on the watch to resist and destroy its enemy. Grace within us will emply prayer, faith, hope, and love to cast out evil. It puts on the "whole armor of God" and wrestles earnestly. These two opposing natures will never cease to struggle so long as we are in this world. With Jesus, who is always with us, the new-born nature is more than a match for its foes. Are you fighting with the adversary today? Are Satan, the world, and the flesh all against you? Do not be discouraged. Fight on! For God Himself is with you. Jehovah Nissi is your banner, and Jehovah Rophi is the healer of your wounds. You will overcome, for who can defeat omnipotence? Fight on, looking to Jesus. Although the conflict may be long and hard, the victory will be sweet. Jesus, the Captain of our salvation, assures us that we will eventually become more than conquerors through Him who loves us.

(Charles Spurgeon, Morning by Morning)