Rain and Moods

Read Philippians 4:10-23

          The rain pounded down.  We don’t have a metal roof, but it was loud enough. It made me smile. I love a good rainstorm. Of course, I also love bright sunny days.

          I don’t want to live in a place like my son and his family, where it’s always hot and humid. Not so much because that’s not my choice for weather, but because I’d miss the change.

          Perhaps I like the change because my moods are so variable.

          Yesterday was definitely an up and down day. I wanted to get some sewing projects done. Everything was going along just fine until I began breaking needles. I broke three in quick succession. Not one, not two, but three. That must be a record – but not one I wanted. And number three was the last one I had, so I had to stop sewing. I hate when my plans get waylaid like that.

          Fortunately, I never lack for things to do. I worked on my blog for a bit . . . and sold three books! A pick-me-up for sure.

          I don’t necessarily think my moodiness is a bad thing, any more than rain is bad or sun is bad. It’s just who I am. Of course, if I make others miserable by the way I act – either grumping around or being too exuberant in my joy – that’s not so good. But if I’m pensive for a while, or a little annoyed at circumstances, it’s fine, just the same as when I’m singing to myself.

          I love what Paul says when he’s thanking the Philippian church for their gift. He’s grateful for what they gave, but not because he really needed it. He doesn’t need anything because he has learned to be content with whatever he has. I’m not quite there yet. I still get upset when I don’t get what I want. I’m not happy when I lack what I think I need.

          But I’m growing into it. I’m learning to embrace my moods, to accept the emotions that God has given me. Just like for Paul, the secret is in knowing God is my source of strength.

          When I have to change plans, I know that God already knew all my day would hold. I might have expectations, but my true goal is to please Him. That makes it easier to switch gears.

          When something unexpectedly good happens, I know Who to thank.

          My ongoing relationship with my Lord keeps everything in proper perspective. It’s kind of funny that the God who made such variable weather for us to enjoy also brings the consistency of Himself to aid us in our changing lives. Just one more example of how vast He is, how He transcends our humanness.