As I was starting my day today, not even halfway into my first cup of coffee, I was thinking of how productive I was the past few days. For some people. being productive isn’t anything extraordinary, but for me, it can be. I have some health issues, including, but not limited to, non-epileptic seizures and migraines. So, as I applauded myself on all that I accomplished, I actually got mentally tired. I thought, “I deserve a day of doing nothing.” I was looking forward to just turning on the TV and being a couch potato.

I could have stopped to thank God for helping me work, write, and do things around the house the past few days, but I didn’t. I could have been excited to have another day of feeling good, but I didn’t. I could have stopped and prayed for God to put someone on my mind and heart to reach out to, but, well, you can figure it out.

Instead of having gratitude, I had a bad attitude! Thankfully, God pulled me out of my selfishness. I would have felt worse if I had indulged in a day of nothing. I would have later focused on all the things I should have done, kicking my anxiety into high gear. I would have felt bad about myself and my decision, making it more challenging to deal with my depression. Oh, did I mention that I also have chronic mental health issues that, if I allow them to, rob me of focus and joy?

While I was thinking, “I deserve, God was saying, “I desire.” He wanted me to put him first, praise him, and trust him with my daily choices. When I did, he gave generously, turning my day from selfish determination and resignation to eternal perspective. As I read Scripture and prayed, I was refreshed and excited to face the day.

As a result, I am now happily writing about how good God is when we trust him with the seemingly mundane choices of every day. God gives us what we need not only to get through the day but also to have a sense of purpose with his power and perseverance.

Jeremiah 42:3, “That the Lord your God may show us the way in which we should walk and the thing we should do.”