I could reflect today on what fun it is to celebrate my birthday.
I could reflect today on what I have accomplished…or not accomplished in 36 years.
I could reflect on how loved I am by friends and family in my life.
I could reflect on how thankful I am to be alive.
I could reflect on how it feels like time is speeding up, and the slow half of my life is over.
I could reflect on all my hopes and dreams for the future…
But, instead, I’ve been reflecting on this:
22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.
(James 1: 22-25)
And, this is what I’ve been praying:
Dear Father,
Thank you for 36 years. Help me run harder this year than the last. Open my eyes, that I may see clearly who I am becoming–and whether or not that is pleasing to you. I ask that you give me the courage to see my reflection for what it is and the grace to believe that you are forming me to be like Christ. Perseverance does not come naturally to me. Help me continue in it, to your glory. You indeed give freedom, freedom from the slavery to sin, freedom to know joy, freedom to forgive, freedom to confess that I am but a creature of 36 years in the infinite wisdom of your Grace. May you be my all in all, today and increasingly beyond. Amen
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Mrs. Simons, this is lovely. what an inspiration you are to me.
Happy Birthday!
-caity spencer
HAPPIEST OF DAYS TO YOUR AND YOUR FAMILY, and I appreciate your celebrating it the way you are, reflecting on what is TRUE AND GOOD! You are an inspiration Ruth, always have been to me!
Happy, happy birthday. I hope it is truly wonderful, filled with much joy and happiness. Blessings on the coming years. You are a wonderful example to so many and I have been very blessed to get to know you better.
<3 marissa
Many blessings on your birthday Ruth!! I am thankful for you and pray that He answers your birthday prayer….I dont see how He couldnt!
Hugs and love from themidwest,
Jen
Thanks for encouraging US on YOUR day! Praying for you today and every day. Love you!
Ruth,
May your years ahead be fruitful and overflow with joy, for the glory of our Father.
Thank you for true words. I will be turning 30 in 10 days (yay! October babies!). I will be thinking about this and praying for you.
What wonderful verses to reflect on. Happy Birthday.
Happy Birthday dear Ruth! I can’t think of a more appropriate birthday meditation.
Ruth,
Happy Birthday! What a wonderful prayer. I too have a October Birthday & will be 36 as well!! May God continue to bless you & guide you this year!
I hope you had a lovely day, Ruth! Love you and hope your day was blessed.