It's been a good day here at work so far. Lately, we've had the problem of too much work and not enough time. Today, it's been just the opposite. Our workload today has experienced such a reversal from the norm that even as it started to pick up just before first break, there's still not enough work to carry us through to the end of the day, at least at the moment.
Still, no complaints from me. It's a nice way to start a short work week before Fourth of July weekend.
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Update 6:04 pm- I'm at lunch now. Things staring really picking up once we got back from our first break. Not that things were likely to stay so light, but it was nice not to have things be so hectic after last week.
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Update 11:12 pm- I pulled some overtime tonight, and I walk in the door about two minutes ago. I was going to write about an issue I've been dealing with lately, but it's late, and I want to give it the time and attention it requires.
So come back tomorrow; I promise it'll be better. Also, it won't have anything to do with work.
Monday, June 30, 2014
Sunday, June 29, 2014
Day one-hundred-eighty
Another lazy Sunday. I had to go back and retype "Sunday" as it originally came out "Sinday". Didn't mean to do that.
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Earlier today, someone posted 2 Corinthians 4:18 on Facebook, "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." It's just way too easy for us to lose sight, or rather, to take our eyes off, the eternal things of God. In this world, we are offered a billion different distractions, all of which clamor for our undivided attention. All of it is trying to get a gold on us , and yet, none of it can be held onto. All the things of this world will perish in the end.
As believers, we've been placed in the hands of an eternal God who always loves us and cares for us . We're the ones who don't always care as we should. We're easily distracted, and as sinners, our hearts are prone to wandering. I know my heart wanders from time to time, but that when I realize what I've done, I can turn back to God and seek His forgiveness knowing that I will find it.
I need to trust in The Lord's faithfulness, which I confess is something with which I struggle. I used to read Psalm 103 to myself once day, which has been described as the Gospel as laid out in the Old Testament. That whole passage is about God's faithfulness to forgive sinners. I have a whole page in the Notes app of my iPod Touch filled with verses on God's faithfulness. It's not God lacking faithfulness, it's my not trusting the faithfulness that Scripture makes clear He has.
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Earlier today, someone posted 2 Corinthians 4:18 on Facebook, "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." It's just way too easy for us to lose sight, or rather, to take our eyes off, the eternal things of God. In this world, we are offered a billion different distractions, all of which clamor for our undivided attention. All of it is trying to get a gold on us , and yet, none of it can be held onto. All the things of this world will perish in the end.
As believers, we've been placed in the hands of an eternal God who always loves us and cares for us . We're the ones who don't always care as we should. We're easily distracted, and as sinners, our hearts are prone to wandering. I know my heart wanders from time to time, but that when I realize what I've done, I can turn back to God and seek His forgiveness knowing that I will find it.
I need to trust in The Lord's faithfulness, which I confess is something with which I struggle. I used to read Psalm 103 to myself once day, which has been described as the Gospel as laid out in the Old Testament. That whole passage is about God's faithfulness to forgive sinners. I have a whole page in the Notes app of my iPod Touch filled with verses on God's faithfulness. It's not God lacking faithfulness, it's my not trusting the faithfulness that Scripture makes clear He has.
Saturday, June 28, 2014
Day one-hundred-seventy-nine
Earlier today, my friend Eneida have birth to her little girl Abigail. She's a little sweetheart with a head full of dark hair. Hopefully, I'll be able to Eneida, Rudy, and the baby in person soon; I get the feeling it may be a while. We're all sending a lot of love and prayers their way.
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I've written about this before, but I find much of my thoughts occupied with the idea of pursuing a girlfriend. Admittedly, I've not felt ready to pursue anyone in part because I have some sin issues I've been dealing with. Namely, they are issues regarding lust. Lustful things are a very easy temptation for me. I don't like that I'm so easily tempted in this idea, but that's how I'm tempted and I'm learning how I ought to flee from it, to resist the devil that he may depart from me and to draw near to God in those moments, to paraphrase James 4:7-8.
I realize that when I start dating somebody, I will face moments where I will be tempted to do things that I know I shouldn't do. I want to go into a potential relationship with my eyes open, and for me, I need to be able to recognize those moments when they come. I want to be able to say that I did right by whomever God leads into my life, and that I honored God in that relationship. In Matthew 5:30, Jesus says, "(I)f your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you; for it more profitable that one of your members should perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell." Sin needs to be dealt with drastically, because its influence and affects are so pervasive.
I want do the right thing in that relationship when the time comes. There are some things that I will only learn when the relationship begins, but that doesn't mean that I can't be working toward that right now. I pray that God is making me ready for a relationship and for "her", whoever she is. I also pray that He is preparing her, too.
…
I've written about this before, but I find much of my thoughts occupied with the idea of pursuing a girlfriend. Admittedly, I've not felt ready to pursue anyone in part because I have some sin issues I've been dealing with. Namely, they are issues regarding lust. Lustful things are a very easy temptation for me. I don't like that I'm so easily tempted in this idea, but that's how I'm tempted and I'm learning how I ought to flee from it, to resist the devil that he may depart from me and to draw near to God in those moments, to paraphrase James 4:7-8.
I realize that when I start dating somebody, I will face moments where I will be tempted to do things that I know I shouldn't do. I want to go into a potential relationship with my eyes open, and for me, I need to be able to recognize those moments when they come. I want to be able to say that I did right by whomever God leads into my life, and that I honored God in that relationship. In Matthew 5:30, Jesus says, "(I)f your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you; for it more profitable that one of your members should perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell." Sin needs to be dealt with drastically, because its influence and affects are so pervasive.
I want do the right thing in that relationship when the time comes. There are some things that I will only learn when the relationship begins, but that doesn't mean that I can't be working toward that right now. I pray that God is making me ready for a relationship and for "her", whoever she is. I also pray that He is preparing her, too.
Friday, June 27, 2014
Day one-hundred-seventy-eight
It's 10:42 pm and I'm home as I write this. We got to get off a little early; a nice way to start the weekend.
It's an exciting time right now. As I write this, my friend Eneida is getting ready to have her first baby. Eneida and her husband Rudy are at the hospital as I write, so hopefully I'll have some good news by this time tomorrow. Pray for a safe delivery for mama and baby.
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I've been reading the th epistle of 1Peter lately, and earlier today, I finished chapter four, which talks about judgment. What struck me in particular is that the judgement of men begins with the church (verse 17). It's not the same judgment of men as befalls the unforgiven, but rather chastening or correction for the purification of the church.
It made me realize that I resist the chastening of The Lord. Scripture says that God chastens those he loves, and I know He loves me because He saved me. I know that I need correction, but it's not all going to happen at once. I'm facing a lifetime of correction and chastening; pray that I would be mindful of God'sove in all that He does for me to His glory.
It's an exciting time right now. As I write this, my friend Eneida is getting ready to have her first baby. Eneida and her husband Rudy are at the hospital as I write, so hopefully I'll have some good news by this time tomorrow. Pray for a safe delivery for mama and baby.
…
I've been reading the th epistle of 1Peter lately, and earlier today, I finished chapter four, which talks about judgment. What struck me in particular is that the judgement of men begins with the church (verse 17). It's not the same judgment of men as befalls the unforgiven, but rather chastening or correction for the purification of the church.
It made me realize that I resist the chastening of The Lord. Scripture says that God chastens those he loves, and I know He loves me because He saved me. I know that I need correction, but it's not all going to happen at once. I'm facing a lifetime of correction and chastening; pray that I would be mindful of God'sove in all that He does for me to His glory.
Thursday, June 26, 2014
Day one-hundred-seventy-seven
Things are continuing to improve at work. Being Thursday, it's a little busier, but with the new system in place, things are getting done without anyone getting overwhelmed. I'm thankful to The Lord for this, and that everyone seems motivated to want things to be better.
In spite of all that's going on, I find myself feeling anxious. I am prone to anxiety, though I haven't felt this anxious in a long time. 1Peter 5:7 says to cast our cares in The Lord, "for He cares for you." It's such an easy temptation to keep these things to myself when I should be taking them to The Lord. He wants us to trust Him, to be the Father we so desperately need.
I find myself realizing (or maybe it's better to say, remembering) why it's so important that we should draw so near to God; it's that He would draw so near to us. He is the Father who runs to meet the prodigal son on the road in the Gospel of John. He sees us afar off and runs to have us.
Lord, may Your goodness and mercy occupy my thoughts, be a comfort, and a source of praise.
In spite of all that's going on, I find myself feeling anxious. I am prone to anxiety, though I haven't felt this anxious in a long time. 1Peter 5:7 says to cast our cares in The Lord, "for He cares for you." It's such an easy temptation to keep these things to myself when I should be taking them to The Lord. He wants us to trust Him, to be the Father we so desperately need.
I find myself realizing (or maybe it's better to say, remembering) why it's so important that we should draw so near to God; it's that He would draw so near to us. He is the Father who runs to meet the prodigal son on the road in the Gospel of John. He sees us afar off and runs to have us.
Lord, may Your goodness and mercy occupy my thoughts, be a comfort, and a source of praise.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Day one-hundred-seventy-six
What a difference a day makes.
When I got to work this afternoon, Nacho, one of the first shift packers, told me they were taken into a meeting by management about changes that needed to be made in the digital room. Namely, management wants everything sent out as soon as possible, regardless of when it's due, taking into consideration that items have deadlines even within the workday. Also, they've gotten more help in the first shift as well.
We also have had more help in the second shift. In addition to having another person help Ana and I help pack regular orders, we now have a packer dedicated solely to the roll labels. He will soon also be getting his own separate shipping station. Everything seems to be geared toward getting everything done as quickly as possible. I want thing to get done quickly, f it gives us the opportunity to get ahead.
Honestly, The Lord is watching over us. He knew we needed hop and Be moved the right people. I needed to be patient and trust God's provision in these things. Scripture admonishes us to wait on The Lord, to trust in His provision. I confess this is something with which I struggle. I have struggled mightily with waiting on God's timing. God has the best thing at the right time, and I have struggled with being patient. I am not a patient person by nature, and I find myself praying that God would help my patience to grow. Scripture tells us that trials are meant to produce patience in a believer, and the last few days have definitely been a trial. I pray that God will continue to work on me and that I would trust Him to be the strength in my weakness.
When I got to work this afternoon, Nacho, one of the first shift packers, told me they were taken into a meeting by management about changes that needed to be made in the digital room. Namely, management wants everything sent out as soon as possible, regardless of when it's due, taking into consideration that items have deadlines even within the workday. Also, they've gotten more help in the first shift as well.
We also have had more help in the second shift. In addition to having another person help Ana and I help pack regular orders, we now have a packer dedicated solely to the roll labels. He will soon also be getting his own separate shipping station. Everything seems to be geared toward getting everything done as quickly as possible. I want thing to get done quickly, f it gives us the opportunity to get ahead.
Honestly, The Lord is watching over us. He knew we needed hop and Be moved the right people. I needed to be patient and trust God's provision in these things. Scripture admonishes us to wait on The Lord, to trust in His provision. I confess this is something with which I struggle. I have struggled mightily with waiting on God's timing. God has the best thing at the right time, and I have struggled with being patient. I am not a patient person by nature, and I find myself praying that God would help my patience to grow. Scripture tells us that trials are meant to produce patience in a believer, and the last few days have definitely been a trial. I pray that God will continue to work on me and that I would trust Him to be the strength in my weakness.
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Day one-hundred-seventy-five
It's been one of those days. It was so hectic today that I've only begun writing this after I come home from work, and it's after 11:00 pm.
We've been swamped these past couple of days, but today was shaping up to be the worst. It got so bad at one point, all I could think about was how much I wanted to quit and go find something else. Of course, I wasn't really going to do that. It's just not practical at the moment.
Seriously, The Lord must've been seeing how stressed and frankly discouraged I was becoming. Jeremiah, who now helps John our manager, saw how badly we needed help, and got someone to help us get everything packed. Jeremiah himself even started helping to pack. I am truly thankful for this, even if I don't see the good until after the fact.
It's honestly humbling. It's made me see that I need to be willing to ask for help when I need it, and that I can get it. I thank God for this, and for the people I work with.
I gotta wrap this up. This is already going up later than I planned.
We've been swamped these past couple of days, but today was shaping up to be the worst. It got so bad at one point, all I could think about was how much I wanted to quit and go find something else. Of course, I wasn't really going to do that. It's just not practical at the moment.
Seriously, The Lord must've been seeing how stressed and frankly discouraged I was becoming. Jeremiah, who now helps John our manager, saw how badly we needed help, and got someone to help us get everything packed. Jeremiah himself even started helping to pack. I am truly thankful for this, even if I don't see the good until after the fact.
It's honestly humbling. It's made me see that I need to be willing to ask for help when I need it, and that I can get it. I thank God for this, and for the people I work with.
I gotta wrap this up. This is already going up later than I planned.
Monday, June 23, 2014
Day one-hundred-seventy-four
Back to work today. When I got to work today, there were two police cars parked outside. I have no idea where they were there, and to be honest, I don't know if they were at our place.
I also found out there were consequences for my not having a doctor's note from when I was out a couple of weeks ago. The company instructed a points system based on whether somebody is late, has an unexcused absence, etc. each unexcused absence is four points each. Right now, I'm sitting at eight points. However, the point cycles restarts evey thirty days, so in a few weeks, my record will be clean.
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I got back to church yesterday, and I'm glad I went because I've been convicted by how spotty my attendance has been the last couple of months. I saw my friend Eneida, who is now due to deliver her baby girl in two weeks. I pray that things go well when the time comes. If she doesn't have the baby between now and this coming Sunday, I think Eneida, her husband Rudy, and I are going to try to have lunch. Lord knows those opportunities are going to fall off for a while pretty soon.
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At the moment, I'm thinking about changing jobs. It's just been on my mind lately to consider moving on to something else. At the printing company, my most immediate opportunity for advancement would be to learn how to operate one of the machines, something that really doesn't interest me. If I really wanted to build a career there, it's something I might do, but I don't like my work enough. Pray that God would grant me wisdom in seeing what else is out there and where The Lord might lead me.
I also found out there were consequences for my not having a doctor's note from when I was out a couple of weeks ago. The company instructed a points system based on whether somebody is late, has an unexcused absence, etc. each unexcused absence is four points each. Right now, I'm sitting at eight points. However, the point cycles restarts evey thirty days, so in a few weeks, my record will be clean.
…
I got back to church yesterday, and I'm glad I went because I've been convicted by how spotty my attendance has been the last couple of months. I saw my friend Eneida, who is now due to deliver her baby girl in two weeks. I pray that things go well when the time comes. If she doesn't have the baby between now and this coming Sunday, I think Eneida, her husband Rudy, and I are going to try to have lunch. Lord knows those opportunities are going to fall off for a while pretty soon.
…
At the moment, I'm thinking about changing jobs. It's just been on my mind lately to consider moving on to something else. At the printing company, my most immediate opportunity for advancement would be to learn how to operate one of the machines, something that really doesn't interest me. If I really wanted to build a career there, it's something I might do, but I don't like my work enough. Pray that God would grant me wisdom in seeing what else is out there and where The Lord might lead me.
Sunday, June 22, 2014
Day one-hundred-seventy-three
I think today will be a short entry. I'm not feeling it today.
I've been convicted by the fact that my church attendance over the past couple of months has been spotty, to say the least. Scripture admonishes believers not to forsake the gathering of the brethren, something that I realize I've been doing without ever really meaning to do so. I don't get many opportunities for fellowship with my present schedule, so I need to be taking advantage of those opportunities when they happen.
Since I starting working afternoons and evenings, I haven't been able to attend a regular weekly Bible study. Now that Doulos has a study that meets on Saturdays, I have the potential opportunity for a new study, but I just haven't taken the initiative to contact them. At the moment, I don't have a means to get to Glendale, but Lord willing, it will happen.
I've been convicted by the fact that my church attendance over the past couple of months has been spotty, to say the least. Scripture admonishes believers not to forsake the gathering of the brethren, something that I realize I've been doing without ever really meaning to do so. I don't get many opportunities for fellowship with my present schedule, so I need to be taking advantage of those opportunities when they happen.
Since I starting working afternoons and evenings, I haven't been able to attend a regular weekly Bible study. Now that Doulos has a study that meets on Saturdays, I have the potential opportunity for a new study, but I just haven't taken the initiative to contact them. At the moment, I don't have a means to get to Glendale, but Lord willing, it will happen.
Saturday, June 21, 2014
Day one-hundred-seventy-two
Today is the first day of summer. As much as I'd like to be doing something somewhere to mark the occasion, I'm home. At least once this summer, I'd like to get to the beach. For what it's worth, I need to find someone to go with me, but I'm getting ahead of myself…
This is actually the first summer in a number of years that I'll be working through the whole season. It's better for me to be working than not, for a number of reasons. It helps to have a steady income and it keeps me out of trouble, especially with a job that I think God is using to cause me to grow spiritually.
This week was so busy, my patience was constantly being tried. It showed me that my patience needs to grow. I've learned (and am still learning) not to yield to my frustration. We were getting buried under a huge amount of work, items were getting misplaced, and I'm increasingly feeling the pull to move on to something else. I'm not looking at any other positions at the moment, nor am I in the position to simply walk away. Of course, I've gone through stressful periods before, and every time things start settling down, my desire to leave will diminish.
Pray that God will grant me wisdom in dealing with my work situation. I need more wisdom and patience in considering my options, whether to stay out for the time being, or to see what else is out there in the meantime.
This is actually the first summer in a number of years that I'll be working through the whole season. It's better for me to be working than not, for a number of reasons. It helps to have a steady income and it keeps me out of trouble, especially with a job that I think God is using to cause me to grow spiritually.
This week was so busy, my patience was constantly being tried. It showed me that my patience needs to grow. I've learned (and am still learning) not to yield to my frustration. We were getting buried under a huge amount of work, items were getting misplaced, and I'm increasingly feeling the pull to move on to something else. I'm not looking at any other positions at the moment, nor am I in the position to simply walk away. Of course, I've gone through stressful periods before, and every time things start settling down, my desire to leave will diminish.
Pray that God will grant me wisdom in dealing with my work situation. I need more wisdom and patience in considering my options, whether to stay out for the time being, or to see what else is out there in the meantime.
Friday, June 20, 2014
Day one-hundred-seventy-one
Another busy day, though not quite so bad as yesterday. What a relief.
We have had one recurring problem, however; a problem that could we need to deal with before it gets out of hand. Even on our busiest days, we usually can keep a handle on our jobs and how they're getting done. Today, it seems we've had an unusually high number of jobs go missing.
Usually, if an item goes missing, it will usually just be reprinted. However, since we've so many jobs get lost, this becomes problematic for a few reasons. Firstly, it creates extra work for everyone involved. The printer has to reprint, the cutter has to recut, and we packer/shippers have to pack it again and make sure it's sent off properly. Secondly, it makes problems for the customer when they have to receive something later than anticipated. Ultimately, it falls to us to make sure things get done as they're supposed to be, because we're the last people to actually handle any work before it actually gets sent off.
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Update 10:38 pm- We got to knock off work early. It's been a very busy week, especially considering how the first shift has been down a person and that's put us all behind. As of now, no more being two days ahead on work for the time being. This expected drop-off in work for the summer didn't even last until summer.
Also, I almost got hit by a car on the ride home. I was cutting across the parking lot of the grocery store down the street from my house. One corner of the building has a glass front on both sides so that you can see through to the front. As I came up the side of the building, I failed to see a woman driving a Honda until it was almost too late. I slammed my brakes, she slammed hers. We actually connected inasmuch as I grazed the front end of her car. I wasn't hurt, I didn't even get off my seat. I told the woman I wasn't hurt and that she could just go. That was about twenty minutes ago.
It seems a somehow appropriate way to end this week. It was so busy that I thought we were going to be buried but weren't, called off by sort of getting hurt by a car but not really.
We have had one recurring problem, however; a problem that could we need to deal with before it gets out of hand. Even on our busiest days, we usually can keep a handle on our jobs and how they're getting done. Today, it seems we've had an unusually high number of jobs go missing.
Usually, if an item goes missing, it will usually just be reprinted. However, since we've so many jobs get lost, this becomes problematic for a few reasons. Firstly, it creates extra work for everyone involved. The printer has to reprint, the cutter has to recut, and we packer/shippers have to pack it again and make sure it's sent off properly. Secondly, it makes problems for the customer when they have to receive something later than anticipated. Ultimately, it falls to us to make sure things get done as they're supposed to be, because we're the last people to actually handle any work before it actually gets sent off.
…
Update 10:38 pm- We got to knock off work early. It's been a very busy week, especially considering how the first shift has been down a person and that's put us all behind. As of now, no more being two days ahead on work for the time being. This expected drop-off in work for the summer didn't even last until summer.
Also, I almost got hit by a car on the ride home. I was cutting across the parking lot of the grocery store down the street from my house. One corner of the building has a glass front on both sides so that you can see through to the front. As I came up the side of the building, I failed to see a woman driving a Honda until it was almost too late. I slammed my brakes, she slammed hers. We actually connected inasmuch as I grazed the front end of her car. I wasn't hurt, I didn't even get off my seat. I told the woman I wasn't hurt and that she could just go. That was about twenty minutes ago.
It seems a somehow appropriate way to end this week. It was so busy that I thought we were going to be buried but weren't, called off by sort of getting hurt by a car but not really.
Thursday, June 19, 2014
Day one-hundred-seventy
I am extremely frustrated right now. I'm at lunch at work, and all I can think about is how the day has been going. It's enough to say that it's not going well.
I don't want to go into it too much; it's just enough to say that things as they are do not work and they need to change. Change has been promised, but it's been slow to come if it's come at all. Pray that God would grant me wisdom and patience in dealing with this situation.
…
Update 8:35 pm- after we got back from lunch, one of our managers, Hamik, had our rolling rack full of orders moved outside so that the packers outside could work on it. That in itself is a minor miracle (seriously). It's given us the opportunity to get caught up and is a big load off my mind.
Still, it's going to be a rush to get the last of today's work out on time. I pray that we can get everything done. Sometimes, it really comes down to the wire.
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Update 11:28 pm- I am home now. We managed to get everything done for today with a minor hiccup near the end. We temporarily had computer problems that almost delayed the last items due today. Fortunately, it was resolved somehow.
God was watching over us today, honestly. He heard my constant prayer for patience in dealing with all the stresses of the day. I think God is using this to teach me patience and how to serve others regardless of circumstance, surely because I asked Him to.
I don't want to go into it too much; it's just enough to say that things as they are do not work and they need to change. Change has been promised, but it's been slow to come if it's come at all. Pray that God would grant me wisdom and patience in dealing with this situation.
…
Update 8:35 pm- after we got back from lunch, one of our managers, Hamik, had our rolling rack full of orders moved outside so that the packers outside could work on it. That in itself is a minor miracle (seriously). It's given us the opportunity to get caught up and is a big load off my mind.
Still, it's going to be a rush to get the last of today's work out on time. I pray that we can get everything done. Sometimes, it really comes down to the wire.
…
Update 11:28 pm- I am home now. We managed to get everything done for today with a minor hiccup near the end. We temporarily had computer problems that almost delayed the last items due today. Fortunately, it was resolved somehow.
God was watching over us today, honestly. He heard my constant prayer for patience in dealing with all the stresses of the day. I think God is using this to teach me patience and how to serve others regardless of circumstance, surely because I asked Him to.
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Day one-hundred-sixty-nine
Have you ever not put the level of thought into something you should have? I think we all have at some point. There's an easy temptation to let things go and not sweat the details. In my job, you have to pay attention to the details, otherwise you can screw up an order very easily. It's important to give attention to detail when it's warranted, being careful not to get caught up in the detail and this gt post in minutia.
For me, there's been one detail about this blog that I wish I had gotten more thought. I hate the name. I don't like the title That Blog by That Guy. Every so often, I think about the blog and I inevitably seem to come back to the name, and what a lousy name it is.
The thing that really gets me is that I don't think I can change it. Since the host site builds the address of of the blog name, as best as I can tell, I can't change the name without having to create a new blog. I don't really want to do that because it feels like starting over.
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Update 11:30 pm- I'm home now, and getting away from that last topic. It just feels like more complaining.
Lately, I've been trying to end my days by reading a prayer from At the Throne of Grace by John MacArthur. It's a good, simple devotional that has had me rethinking my prayer life and has kept me searching God's Word. If you haven't read it, pick it up. It's been very enriching.
I need to wrap this up; I still have that devotional to do, plus I have a late dinner waiting for me.
For me, there's been one detail about this blog that I wish I had gotten more thought. I hate the name. I don't like the title That Blog by That Guy. Every so often, I think about the blog and I inevitably seem to come back to the name, and what a lousy name it is.
The thing that really gets me is that I don't think I can change it. Since the host site builds the address of of the blog name, as best as I can tell, I can't change the name without having to create a new blog. I don't really want to do that because it feels like starting over.
…
Update 11:30 pm- I'm home now, and getting away from that last topic. It just feels like more complaining.
Lately, I've been trying to end my days by reading a prayer from At the Throne of Grace by John MacArthur. It's a good, simple devotional that has had me rethinking my prayer life and has kept me searching God's Word. If you haven't read it, pick it up. It's been very enriching.
I need to wrap this up; I still have that devotional to do, plus I have a late dinner waiting for me.
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
Day one-hundred-sixty-eight
Easy day today. I had a period in the middle of the day where I didn't get any work done for over forty minutes. That's what happens when you follow up a trip to the restroom with an unexpected meeting. In retrospect, I guess I should've been anticipating it, as it was our regular monthly departmental meeting. As long as you sit toward the back of the room and don't draw attention to yourself, it's kind of like a second lunch. They definitely try not to waste anyone's time, but I tend people generally view it as another break for which we are being paid.
…
Update 11:10 pm- I'm home now. I managed to get an unexpected ride home from my sister Laura. I wanted her to take me to run some errands when I get home, but she figured it was better to do it all at once.
She's going through what I was fealing with a few months ago: a job search in a rather limited market. She's got feelers put out everywhere and has gotten a few interviews. She even has a sort of job but it's part time on-call and so far they haven't needed her. We'll see what happens.
I know from my own experience the frustrations of a job search. I've been through prolonged periods of unemployment, and they can be both frustrating and deeply discouraging. I had more time than I knew what to do with, and as such, I wasted a lot of time. I wasn't saved, so I wasn't doing anything worthwhile or honoring to God. There are literally years of my life that are gone, that I will never get back, that I spent not really doing anything apart from indulging myself and just marking time.
I think that's why it weighs so heavily on me not to waste time in my life, something which I am still guilty of doing. I don't even like to think of that time, because all I can think is, "What a waste." Scripture admonishes us to redeem the time (Ephesians 5:16) we have, that we ought to be pursuing the things of The Lord with that time. I pray that I would do as I should, and that you would seek Him as you should.
…
Update 11:10 pm- I'm home now. I managed to get an unexpected ride home from my sister Laura. I wanted her to take me to run some errands when I get home, but she figured it was better to do it all at once.
She's going through what I was fealing with a few months ago: a job search in a rather limited market. She's got feelers put out everywhere and has gotten a few interviews. She even has a sort of job but it's part time on-call and so far they haven't needed her. We'll see what happens.
I know from my own experience the frustrations of a job search. I've been through prolonged periods of unemployment, and they can be both frustrating and deeply discouraging. I had more time than I knew what to do with, and as such, I wasted a lot of time. I wasn't saved, so I wasn't doing anything worthwhile or honoring to God. There are literally years of my life that are gone, that I will never get back, that I spent not really doing anything apart from indulging myself and just marking time.
I think that's why it weighs so heavily on me not to waste time in my life, something which I am still guilty of doing. I don't even like to think of that time, because all I can think is, "What a waste." Scripture admonishes us to redeem the time (Ephesians 5:16) we have, that we ought to be pursuing the things of The Lord with that time. I pray that I would do as I should, and that you would seek Him as you should.
Monday, June 16, 2014
Day one-hundred-sixty-seven
I'm back at work today. Nothing too bad; actually, it's been pretty quiet today.
I was so concerned about not having a doctor's note with my excuse slip. My boss didn't even ask about one. It's an answer to prayer, certainly. He knew I was sick, because he was the one who said I could leave early last Wednesday. Thankfully, I save myself a $20.00 copay and killing two or three hours at urgent care over the weekend.
…
Since I wrote yesterday's entry so early, I should do a bit about Father's Day. We didn't do anything too special, which was fine considering that Dad never really likes a big to-do for himself. We just gathered around the table on our back porch and everyone gave him their gifts. He was very happy to get the sandals I bought via my co-worker Ana. Mom also took him to How to Train Your Dragon 2, which they both enjoyed.
I think the relationship I have with Dad and I'm thankful that God has brought us closer together. Before I was saved, we really didn't have a relationship to speak of, because I was as shut off to him as I was to everyone else. I didn't know that he and Mom understood that something was wrong and that they were praying for me. I'm grateful for this, and for them.
I was so concerned about not having a doctor's note with my excuse slip. My boss didn't even ask about one. It's an answer to prayer, certainly. He knew I was sick, because he was the one who said I could leave early last Wednesday. Thankfully, I save myself a $20.00 copay and killing two or three hours at urgent care over the weekend.
…
Since I wrote yesterday's entry so early, I should do a bit about Father's Day. We didn't do anything too special, which was fine considering that Dad never really likes a big to-do for himself. We just gathered around the table on our back porch and everyone gave him their gifts. He was very happy to get the sandals I bought via my co-worker Ana. Mom also took him to How to Train Your Dragon 2, which they both enjoyed.
I think the relationship I have with Dad and I'm thankful that God has brought us closer together. Before I was saved, we really didn't have a relationship to speak of, because I was as shut off to him as I was to everyone else. I didn't know that he and Mom understood that something was wrong and that they were praying for me. I'm grateful for this, and for them.
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Day one-hundred-sixty-six
Those of you who read this blog regularly may notice that yesterday has no entry (day one-hundred-sixty-five). I have a reason for this, but it's not a very good one considering the track record I've had with the blog so far. For no reason other than simple forgetfulness, I failed to write an entry for Saturday. It's 12:47 am Sunday morning as I write this, and I do this now as I just realized my mistake a few minutes ago.
It's on my heart to address this now, so I'd like to apologize to anyone who anticipated yesterday's entry and didn't see it. I considered writing one but decided that this was the better way. It's the truth.
Of course, this is one of those times that makes me consider blogging less often. My fear, however, is that if I did it on a less frequent basis, I would eventually forget to do it at all. I blog daily because that frequency is motivation to keep going. If I did it less often, I think that I'd let it go sooner or later. In all the writing I've ever done, I've never been so prolific.
As I think about it, it amazes me that it's taken this long to break the streak. There have been more than a few occasions where I barely posted entries on time, usually due to circumstances beyond my control. Somehow, though, I think I've always sort of known that I would miss simply because I didn't bother to do it. Not that I would choose not to post, but rather it would come down to me simply not getting it done.
Maybe that's another reason why I'm writing this now- making sure that I get it done early today.
It's on my heart to address this now, so I'd like to apologize to anyone who anticipated yesterday's entry and didn't see it. I considered writing one but decided that this was the better way. It's the truth.
Of course, this is one of those times that makes me consider blogging less often. My fear, however, is that if I did it on a less frequent basis, I would eventually forget to do it at all. I blog daily because that frequency is motivation to keep going. If I did it less often, I think that I'd let it go sooner or later. In all the writing I've ever done, I've never been so prolific.
As I think about it, it amazes me that it's taken this long to break the streak. There have been more than a few occasions where I barely posted entries on time, usually due to circumstances beyond my control. Somehow, though, I think I've always sort of known that I would miss simply because I didn't bother to do it. Not that I would choose not to post, but rather it would come down to me simply not getting it done.
Maybe that's another reason why I'm writing this now- making sure that I get it done early today.
Friday, June 13, 2014
Day one-hundred-sixty-four
I did not go into work again today. I'm home, resting or at least, trying to rest. I keep having to get up for one reason or another. I should be back to work Monday, which is good as this pay period is going to be short enough as it is.
I'm trying to learn to be wiser with my money management, as I'm sure like many of you, I live from paycheck to paycheck. By the time I get paid again, I usually have little money left.
I used to have a savings account, back when I was first working full time back in 2004. I was making good money, and not really having to contribute to household finances. When I cut back my hours to go back to school, I cleaned out that account. I have t had one since.
In general, my spending is as follows: every two weeks, $400.00 goes to the household accounts (more if I have more to give), and the rest of my paycheck is for personal items and usually amounts to around $200.00. That $400.00 is a fairly fixed amount; it won't change if my checks are smaller, and they will be over the next couple of pay periods.
I'm praying that I would trust God to provide for me and that He knows the needs I will have and how He intends to fulfill those needs. I know I can get by; as a family, we've always just gotten by, so that's nothing new. What's different from before is the realization that I need to be more responsible with the provision of money that God has given me.
Just knowing that I have to earmark a certain portion of my earnings toward bills helps me to formulate a budget. Where I need help (really, wisdom) is how to better handle the rest.
I'm trying to learn to be wiser with my money management, as I'm sure like many of you, I live from paycheck to paycheck. By the time I get paid again, I usually have little money left.
I used to have a savings account, back when I was first working full time back in 2004. I was making good money, and not really having to contribute to household finances. When I cut back my hours to go back to school, I cleaned out that account. I have t had one since.
In general, my spending is as follows: every two weeks, $400.00 goes to the household accounts (more if I have more to give), and the rest of my paycheck is for personal items and usually amounts to around $200.00. That $400.00 is a fairly fixed amount; it won't change if my checks are smaller, and they will be over the next couple of pay periods.
I'm praying that I would trust God to provide for me and that He knows the needs I will have and how He intends to fulfill those needs. I know I can get by; as a family, we've always just gotten by, so that's nothing new. What's different from before is the realization that I need to be more responsible with the provision of money that God has given me.
Just knowing that I have to earmark a certain portion of my earnings toward bills helps me to formulate a budget. Where I need help (really, wisdom) is how to better handle the rest.
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Day one-hundred-sixty-three
I stayed home from work today, and I'm not sure if I'll be back tomorrow. We'll see what happens tomorrow comes.
I am starting to feel better, slowly. I hope that I am better by Saturday, to help Brent and Hayley with their move. That reminds me that I need to get back in touch with Brent as he was going to see about getting a ride for me. I should get in touch with them at least so that they may know the possibility of my not coming, as they are anticipating me.
…
Everything feels off. What I mean is that since I've been off these last two days, and most of that time has been spent in bed, all of my time and schedules are off. Normally, I would be at work right now. I haven't been home on a Thursday afternoon in a long time, somewhere in the area of several months.
…
I feel like I'm just meandering with this post. Once again, I did not have anything prepared as today's post was not high on today's list of priorities. I'm actually starting to get a little sleepy as I write this. I should probably go to sleep, at least for a little while. I do want to at least try to go to work tomorrow, if I feel like I can make up.
I am starting to feel better, slowly. I hope that I am better by Saturday, to help Brent and Hayley with their move. That reminds me that I need to get back in touch with Brent as he was going to see about getting a ride for me. I should get in touch with them at least so that they may know the possibility of my not coming, as they are anticipating me.
…
Everything feels off. What I mean is that since I've been off these last two days, and most of that time has been spent in bed, all of my time and schedules are off. Normally, I would be at work right now. I haven't been home on a Thursday afternoon in a long time, somewhere in the area of several months.
…
I feel like I'm just meandering with this post. Once again, I did not have anything prepared as today's post was not high on today's list of priorities. I'm actually starting to get a little sleepy as I write this. I should probably go to sleep, at least for a little while. I do want to at least try to go to work tomorrow, if I feel like I can make up.
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Day one-hundred-sixty-two
A short post tonight. I'm sick.
I went to work today and left after a little over one hour. I didn't have the energy to stand on my feet. I don't know if I'll be back tomorrow.
I'm not sure if I have the flu or if it's my recurring stomach problems. I've gotten really hot, like I'm getting a fever.
Pray that God will allow me to get better soon. I want to be ready to help Brent and Hayley move on Saturday, and if I'm still so weak, I'm not going to be a help at all.
Regardless, I hope that Saturday is a blessed time for everyone involved.
I have to stop typing now; my arms are getting sore from holding my iPod Touch up to type.
I went to work today and left after a little over one hour. I didn't have the energy to stand on my feet. I don't know if I'll be back tomorrow.
I'm not sure if I have the flu or if it's my recurring stomach problems. I've gotten really hot, like I'm getting a fever.
Pray that God will allow me to get better soon. I want to be ready to help Brent and Hayley move on Saturday, and if I'm still so weak, I'm not going to be a help at all.
Regardless, I hope that Saturday is a blessed time for everyone involved.
I have to stop typing now; my arms are getting sore from holding my iPod Touch up to type.
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Day one-hundred-sixty-one
I feel awful today. My recurring stomach problems have returned over the last couple of days. I pray that God will sustain me physically through this. It leaves me feeling like I have the flu, except that I don't have a fever.
At least I don't have to ride home tonight. I can get a ride, and I didn't feel like like I could face the bike ride home.
This whole thing has got me thinking the trails that God brings into our lives. Scripture says that God brings trials to produce endurance; that is, to strengthen us to persevere. What I'm dealing with right now can't compare to things others have struggled with, like severe illness or the death of a loved one. It's still a physical trial, regardless. I need to trust God that He will guide me through this, just as He brought me to this.
There are some things I can do about it, though. I have started adjusting my diet, trying to figure out what's causing my problem. The last time I had this, a couple of months ago, I lost a fair amount of weight. I've put some of it back on, so at least it's made me realize that I need to change my diet.
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Update-8:33 pm: Although I'm severely tempted to do so, I don't think I'll be taking tomorrow off. I'm praying that I'll get better soon, not just I can be more productive at work, but because I want to be ready to help my friends Brent and Hayley move on Saturday. I pray that I would get better soon, and that in the meantime, I would trust in The Lord and His sustaining care.
At least I don't have to ride home tonight. I can get a ride, and I didn't feel like like I could face the bike ride home.
This whole thing has got me thinking the trails that God brings into our lives. Scripture says that God brings trials to produce endurance; that is, to strengthen us to persevere. What I'm dealing with right now can't compare to things others have struggled with, like severe illness or the death of a loved one. It's still a physical trial, regardless. I need to trust God that He will guide me through this, just as He brought me to this.
There are some things I can do about it, though. I have started adjusting my diet, trying to figure out what's causing my problem. The last time I had this, a couple of months ago, I lost a fair amount of weight. I've put some of it back on, so at least it's made me realize that I need to change my diet.
…
Update-8:33 pm: Although I'm severely tempted to do so, I don't think I'll be taking tomorrow off. I'm praying that I'll get better soon, not just I can be more productive at work, but because I want to be ready to help my friends Brent and Hayley move on Saturday. I pray that I would get better soon, and that in the meantime, I would trust in The Lord and His sustaining care.
Monday, June 9, 2014
Day one-hundred-sixty
I've gotten to work early today; it's 1:57 pm as I write this. Once again, I've failed to have anything in particular prepared for today's post. Let's see where this goes
…
Not long after our shift began, our manager John came into the room to address some issues regarding the first shift. Mostly, he asked us to be patient with the job the first shift was doin. Right now, our main issue is the need to better organize the jobs so that they may be sent out in a more timely manner. This means that first shifts packers have to essentially work harder to overcome the indifference of the first shift cutter. John is aware of the problem with the cutter but can't really do anything about it, short of removing him, which would leave them short-handed.
Nobody really likes the idea of having to be so accommodating to first shift, considering all the complaints we've had. However, it does seem like they're mostly doing the best they can. They've got a new lady working in there who seems to be doing a much better job than the previous lady.
I know I've said this before, but again, I never wanted this to become a place where all I do is write endlessly about work. I just pray for wisdom in regards to what we can and should do in dealing with first shift. I also pray in patience and in trusting in The Lord and in His guiding hand.
…
No big news apart from what's going on at work. Hopefully, I'll have something better for tomorrow.
…
Not long after our shift began, our manager John came into the room to address some issues regarding the first shift. Mostly, he asked us to be patient with the job the first shift was doin. Right now, our main issue is the need to better organize the jobs so that they may be sent out in a more timely manner. This means that first shifts packers have to essentially work harder to overcome the indifference of the first shift cutter. John is aware of the problem with the cutter but can't really do anything about it, short of removing him, which would leave them short-handed.
Nobody really likes the idea of having to be so accommodating to first shift, considering all the complaints we've had. However, it does seem like they're mostly doing the best they can. They've got a new lady working in there who seems to be doing a much better job than the previous lady.
I know I've said this before, but again, I never wanted this to become a place where all I do is write endlessly about work. I just pray for wisdom in regards to what we can and should do in dealing with first shift. I also pray in patience and in trusting in The Lord and in His guiding hand.
…
No big news apart from what's going on at work. Hopefully, I'll have something better for tomorrow.
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Day one-hundred-fifty-nine
Before I start, I just discovered that I forgot to post to Facebook about yesterday's post. I didn't forget to write it. It would explain why yesterday's post only has two readers at this time (2:40 pm).
…
I did not sleep well last night. I think I got about three hours. Sunday is the only day of the week when I'm up before 10:00 am. I wanted to make sure to go since I haven't been to church for the past two Sundays. In seeking to renew my dedication to fellowship, I'm trying to make a better effort at regular attendance, especially as I always miss it when I don't go. Since I've been saved, I've never regretted attending church, and I've regretted every time I've missed it, no matter the reason.
In Doulos today, we had a message that took a tangent from our ongoing series in the book of Ephesians. In Ephesians chapter six, Paul considers the armor of God and its protection and security for believers. Today's message was a consideration of what happens when we begin to remove the bits of spiritual armor from ourselves; that is, what happens when we grow lazy and complacent in dealing with sin. The message centered around the story of David and Bathsheba from 2 Samuel chapter eleven.
Each step along the way, David fails to do what he ought to do, and removes some piece of armor from himself, whether the breastplate of righteousness (as when he takes Bathsheba for himself) or the shoes of the gospel of peace (when he declares war against a neighboring country over an insult to himself). He tries to cover his sin with greater sin until his behavior hardens him.
No one is too good to fall into sin. Of course, the flip side, and the hope for any true believer, is that no matter what sin one has committed, if one is truly repentant, God is faithful and eager to forgive.
…
I did not sleep well last night. I think I got about three hours. Sunday is the only day of the week when I'm up before 10:00 am. I wanted to make sure to go since I haven't been to church for the past two Sundays. In seeking to renew my dedication to fellowship, I'm trying to make a better effort at regular attendance, especially as I always miss it when I don't go. Since I've been saved, I've never regretted attending church, and I've regretted every time I've missed it, no matter the reason.
In Doulos today, we had a message that took a tangent from our ongoing series in the book of Ephesians. In Ephesians chapter six, Paul considers the armor of God and its protection and security for believers. Today's message was a consideration of what happens when we begin to remove the bits of spiritual armor from ourselves; that is, what happens when we grow lazy and complacent in dealing with sin. The message centered around the story of David and Bathsheba from 2 Samuel chapter eleven.
Each step along the way, David fails to do what he ought to do, and removes some piece of armor from himself, whether the breastplate of righteousness (as when he takes Bathsheba for himself) or the shoes of the gospel of peace (when he declares war against a neighboring country over an insult to himself). He tries to cover his sin with greater sin until his behavior hardens him.
No one is too good to fall into sin. Of course, the flip side, and the hope for any true believer, is that no matter what sin one has committed, if one is truly repentant, God is faithful and eager to forgive.
Saturday, June 7, 2014
Day one-hundred-fifty-eight
I had a realization after publishing yesterday's post. I realize that it wasn't that I didn't want to go to the Doulos picnic (which is going on as I write this), it was that I didn't want to be bothered with going. I now wish I had gone. I just might've had a good time.
I've started reading through 1 Peter today. In Chapter 1, Peter reminds his readers that we are to love one another fervently, that is, with conviction, passion, or zeal. I haven't really made much effort to demonstrate that sort of love to others. I've just finished reading through the epistles of 1-3 John, and a recurring theme throughout is hospitality. I don't make the effort to extend hospitality to others that I ought to be.
It's just so easy not to do it, when I know in my mind and heart that it is both honoring to God and and a blessing for me. And I don't do it like I know I should.
Pray that I would cultivate an active love for others, a love that honors The Lord and His love for us.
Friday, June 6, 2014
Day one-hundred-fifty seven
Some time last night, this blog passed 3000 views since it began January 1st. Thank you to those of you who've hung in since then, and to those who've joined after that, welcome.
I'm not sure who's doing this, but every so often, the number of pageviews will rocket for a day. The usual number of pageviews wavers between eleven and fifteen per day. Yesterday, the pageviews totaled nearly seventy. Someone or some group of people is reading large blocks of the blog at a time, then they disappear back into the ether of the Internet for a time.
It's those moments that are a big motivation to keep the blog going daily. As I've kept it going, it's found an audience, however meager. If I wrote less often, my fear would be that my already small audience would eventually leave.
…
Tomorrow is the annual picnic for our Bible study, Doulos. I'm not planning to attend, for a few reasons. One, I had forgotten all about it until a few days ago. Two, I don't know many people in the group and most of those I do know aren't planning to attend either. Three, I had plans to help Mom get her nursery room ready for Sunday, but at the moment, those plans are possibly on hold.
I didn't go last year, either. I think that was because I just didn't want to go. I didn't have a very good experience when I went the first (and so far, only) time I've attended the Doulos picnic two years ago. The one good thng that came out of it was the opportunity to help Samantha and Joshua raise funds for their missions trip to South Africa, and the subsequent friendship that grew out of it.
It's still very hard for me to enjoy large group activities. Get me with a small group of people and I'm fine. In large groups, I find it extremely difficult to engage others, especially in crowds of strangers.
For me, it's about being there on Sunday. I like to get together with others and have some fun activity, but large groups don't do anything for me. On Sunday, we can at least share in fellowship and communal worship of The Lord, and be refreshed spiritually for the week ahead.
I'm not sure who's doing this, but every so often, the number of pageviews will rocket for a day. The usual number of pageviews wavers between eleven and fifteen per day. Yesterday, the pageviews totaled nearly seventy. Someone or some group of people is reading large blocks of the blog at a time, then they disappear back into the ether of the Internet for a time.
It's those moments that are a big motivation to keep the blog going daily. As I've kept it going, it's found an audience, however meager. If I wrote less often, my fear would be that my already small audience would eventually leave.
…
Tomorrow is the annual picnic for our Bible study, Doulos. I'm not planning to attend, for a few reasons. One, I had forgotten all about it until a few days ago. Two, I don't know many people in the group and most of those I do know aren't planning to attend either. Three, I had plans to help Mom get her nursery room ready for Sunday, but at the moment, those plans are possibly on hold.
I didn't go last year, either. I think that was because I just didn't want to go. I didn't have a very good experience when I went the first (and so far, only) time I've attended the Doulos picnic two years ago. The one good thng that came out of it was the opportunity to help Samantha and Joshua raise funds for their missions trip to South Africa, and the subsequent friendship that grew out of it.
It's still very hard for me to enjoy large group activities. Get me with a small group of people and I'm fine. In large groups, I find it extremely difficult to engage others, especially in crowds of strangers.
For me, it's about being there on Sunday. I like to get together with others and have some fun activity, but large groups don't do anything for me. On Sunday, we can at least share in fellowship and communal worship of The Lord, and be refreshed spiritually for the week ahead.
Thursday, June 5, 2014
Day one-hundred-fifty-six
Okay. I'm only going to work about work briefly. Ana's not here today, so I'm running the whipping in the digital room. It's busy, but I have good help. God has sustained me through today, and once we roll past 7:00 pm, the most hectic stretch will be over.
Now it's all out of my system. Time to move on.
…
My parents and I have started doing our evening prayer time together again. Sometimes, it's not so easy to do, since I come home weeknights anytime between 10:45 and 11:30 pm. Still, we're getting together as often as we can, and I think it's good for us.
My dad has said he has trouble letting people grow close to him, admittedly out of fear of being hurt. It's a feeling I know and understand all too well. He wants to do better and look for those opportunities to share with other brothers and sisters.
A few days after my friend Eneida's baby shower, I told Dad that I thought she liked him, which surprised him, as he doesn't really think of himself as a likable person. I said that I don't think of myself as particularly likable, either, but people seem to like me.
Dad and I are very much alike, so I sympathize with his struggles. It's difficult still for me to let people in, something I'm trying hard to address as the future prospect of a relationship weighs more on my mind.
The Book of Proverbs tells us that we ought to guard our hearts, for everything we do flows from it (Proverbs 4:23). Giving our hearts too quickly to someone else leaves us open for hurt later on. People think love is all about romance and drinking in all the emotion. Rather, like so many things, we are admonished to apply wisdom in the use of our love. Our hearts are vulnerable, but we can have protection if we exercise godly wisdom.
I pray that God will grant me wisdom in how I exercise the love He has given me.
Now it's all out of my system. Time to move on.
…
My parents and I have started doing our evening prayer time together again. Sometimes, it's not so easy to do, since I come home weeknights anytime between 10:45 and 11:30 pm. Still, we're getting together as often as we can, and I think it's good for us.
My dad has said he has trouble letting people grow close to him, admittedly out of fear of being hurt. It's a feeling I know and understand all too well. He wants to do better and look for those opportunities to share with other brothers and sisters.
A few days after my friend Eneida's baby shower, I told Dad that I thought she liked him, which surprised him, as he doesn't really think of himself as a likable person. I said that I don't think of myself as particularly likable, either, but people seem to like me.
Dad and I are very much alike, so I sympathize with his struggles. It's difficult still for me to let people in, something I'm trying hard to address as the future prospect of a relationship weighs more on my mind.
The Book of Proverbs tells us that we ought to guard our hearts, for everything we do flows from it (Proverbs 4:23). Giving our hearts too quickly to someone else leaves us open for hurt later on. People think love is all about romance and drinking in all the emotion. Rather, like so many things, we are admonished to apply wisdom in the use of our love. Our hearts are vulnerable, but we can have protection if we exercise godly wisdom.
I pray that God will grant me wisdom in how I exercise the love He has given me.
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
Day one-hundred-fifty-five
Once again, I have failed to have a topic in mind when it came time to sit down and write today's post. However, I have found that if I stop and pray that God would be glorified in what I write, He will bring something to mind.
Actually, I have to go back to work now, so we'll see where this goes later.
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Update-10:49 pm: I'm home now, at the end of a day that started out very busy and hectic. I pray for wisdom regarding how to handle the problems we're still having with the first shift.
Tomorrow is a big day for me. Ana will not be in tomorrow, so I will be running the room for only the second time. Thursdays are typically our busiest days, and things have been busier lately.
Today, I realized that I don't have a lot of patience with the generally poor job the first shift does in the digital room. It's frustrating when part of my job has become fixing whatever it is that first shift is doing, but isn't really work.
I have to stop now. This is just starting to turn into a complaint. May I have something for tomorrow.
Actually, I have to go back to work now, so we'll see where this goes later.
…
Update-10:49 pm: I'm home now, at the end of a day that started out very busy and hectic. I pray for wisdom regarding how to handle the problems we're still having with the first shift.
Tomorrow is a big day for me. Ana will not be in tomorrow, so I will be running the room for only the second time. Thursdays are typically our busiest days, and things have been busier lately.
Today, I realized that I don't have a lot of patience with the generally poor job the first shift does in the digital room. It's frustrating when part of my job has become fixing whatever it is that first shift is doing, but isn't really work.
I have to stop now. This is just starting to turn into a complaint. May I have something for tomorrow.
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
Day one-hundred-fifty-four
In the past few days, I've been trying to cultivate the idea of actually having something to write about when I sit down to write. Far too often, I've sat down to write a day's entry and tried to be extemporaneous, only for the end result to be yet another prolonged complaint about work.
I've become increasingly drawn to the idea of actually having something in mind when I begin writing. All too often though, if some idea does come to mind, I'll try to remember it for later and I'll usually forget.
So why am I telling you readers all this? I'm writing this because this is another area in which I could be doing better as a blogger. Taking the time to truly consider what I want to write would serve to improve the quality of my work, as I could choose what u want to write and be left feeling like I'm scrambling for options.
Also, I failed to heed my own advice, and after the last couple of days, I didn't have anything prepared for the day, and I've sort of been avoiding getting around to that fact. Let's try again tomorrow.
I've become increasingly drawn to the idea of actually having something in mind when I begin writing. All too often though, if some idea does come to mind, I'll try to remember it for later and I'll usually forget.
So why am I telling you readers all this? I'm writing this because this is another area in which I could be doing better as a blogger. Taking the time to truly consider what I want to write would serve to improve the quality of my work, as I could choose what u want to write and be left feeling like I'm scrambling for options.
Also, I failed to heed my own advice, and after the last couple of days, I didn't have anything prepared for the day, and I've sort of been avoiding getting around to that fact. Let's try again tomorrow.
Monday, June 2, 2014
Day one-hundred-fifty-three
I had deliberately planned not to write anything about work today. Just pray that God would grant me wisdom in dealing with work issues. It seems like we're starting to have more of the same issues we had before regarding first shift staff and their seeming lack of diligence. They let things go we on second shift have to clean it all up.
…
I don't want to write any more stuff about work today.
Yesterday, I looked back through a number of previous posts and I couldn't help noticing a tone of complaint to what I was writing. I don't want to do that anymore. I never wanted this blog to be a place for me to vent my frustrations. It's not very enjoyable to write and I would imagine less enjoyable to read.
Let's talk about something else.
…
Let's talk about girls.
I've been thinking about the girls I find most appealing in a potential girlfriend/wife. First and foremost, she should be a godly woman, she should be a genuine Christian. Of course, only God will know her heart, but her conduct would demonstrate where her heart is. I cannot expect her to be a perfect spouse, she won't be. She would still be just a saved sinner. Besides, why she should be a perfect wife when she will never have a perfect husband?
I'm starting to notice the qualities in my female acquaintances (particularly women at church) that I find appealing. My friend Eneida is one with whom I have a very easy rapport. Julia Dandurand is extremely intelligent but who is also very easy-going and friendly. Samantha Bahruth is both very creative and very practical, two qualities that don't often meet. These are all qualities that I admire and would like to find in a potential girlfriend or wife.
I have a lot of growing to do as a man and as a Christian. May I trust God to lead me all the way.
…
I don't want to write any more stuff about work today.
Yesterday, I looked back through a number of previous posts and I couldn't help noticing a tone of complaint to what I was writing. I don't want to do that anymore. I never wanted this blog to be a place for me to vent my frustrations. It's not very enjoyable to write and I would imagine less enjoyable to read.
Let's talk about something else.
…
Let's talk about girls.
I've been thinking about the girls I find most appealing in a potential girlfriend/wife. First and foremost, she should be a godly woman, she should be a genuine Christian. Of course, only God will know her heart, but her conduct would demonstrate where her heart is. I cannot expect her to be a perfect spouse, she won't be. She would still be just a saved sinner. Besides, why she should be a perfect wife when she will never have a perfect husband?
I'm starting to notice the qualities in my female acquaintances (particularly women at church) that I find appealing. My friend Eneida is one with whom I have a very easy rapport. Julia Dandurand is extremely intelligent but who is also very easy-going and friendly. Samantha Bahruth is both very creative and very practical, two qualities that don't often meet. These are all qualities that I admire and would like to find in a potential girlfriend or wife.
I have a lot of growing to do as a man and as a Christian. May I trust God to lead me all the way.
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Day one-hundred-fifty-two
Last night, before I wrote yesterday's entry, I prayed that God would grant me wisdom in writing this blog. I needed a different attitude about my writing, especially since the blog had been turning into something I never intended it to become: a place to complain about things with which I was struggling.
Now, I want to approach things differently, with a different attitude and a new goal, that is, to actually have a goal in mind. With this blog, I've become far more willing to share about myself than I ever have before. Now, I want to do it in a manner that is pleasing to God.
Also, I hope in some way what I write is helpful to somebody somewhere. Galatians reminds us to bear each other's burdens, and that in doing so, we fulfill the law of Christ. We are to care for each other, as our Lord cares for us.
Before I was saved, I used to think that people didn't understand my struggles. Now I realize that people understood me, but lacked understanding myself. I had a heart dead in sin. I couldn't see that the problem was me. Now, God has given me eyes to see and ears to hear. If I ever wonder if I'm truly saved, and I do because I find myself still dealing with many of the same old sins, I look at my life and consider what's there that wasn't before, and ultimately, it all points back to The Lord. He is good to me. I am grateful to Him for the forgiveness and love He has given me.
…
Earlier, Mom mentioned something that's been on my heart lately. Since, I've started working afternoons and evenings, we've stepped away from our prayer time as a family, or rather, Mom, Dad, and myself. Mom wants to take it up again, and I would too. I pray that we would find a way that we could do it as often as possible.
Before I was saved, I used to think that people didn't understand my struggles. Now I realize that people understood me, but lacked understanding myself. I had a heart dead in sin. I couldn't see that the problem was me. Now, God has given me eyes to see and ears to hear. If I ever wonder if I'm truly saved, and I do because I find myself still dealing with many of the same old sins, I look at my life and consider what's there that wasn't before, and ultimately, it all points back to The Lord. He is good to me. I am grateful to Him for the forgiveness and love He has given me.
…
Earlier, Mom mentioned something that's been on my heart lately. Since, I've started working afternoons and evenings, we've stepped away from our prayer time as a family, or rather, Mom, Dad, and myself. Mom wants to take it up again, and I would too. I pray that we would find a way that we could do it as often as possible.
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