When the Uglies Come Out

I think about the study that we are working through, "Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl" and I identify with Lysa TerKeurst's desire to make Jesus more than a theology. I remember her words that speak of the "quest to live out the realities of Jesus in the midst of everyday life." I share the yearning to know what to do when "the uglies come out!"

This week in our homework we are practising the presence of God by praising God. I have been encountering this theme lately.
Practise.
A friend said, "Practise how you are going to respond in situations during your quiet time with God. Be intentional about rehearsing."
Choosing to give praise to God is something we learn. Ann Voskamp says of living a life of eucharisteo, or thanksgiving; "learn it to live fully."

Philippians 4:11 - 12
I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything.
I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.

It is a learned choice to abandon, with purpose, self-filled emotions instead of harbouring them obsessively in our thoughts, words and actions. In turn we replace that emotion by inviting God into the situation and hold on to God, His promises.

I have been practising and praise does not always come easy in the moment. In fact, it is crowded out by the overwhelming space given to the hurt.
God you are bigger than this.
The hurt fights back.
God, I'm thankful for your strength.
The ugly remains.
Am I merely reciting? Does this really work?
But while thinking, there has to be a way? I feel called to invite God into this hurt. When God is invited in, the problem doesn't go away but there is peace. There is hope that God will direct the course of action that needs to follow. So now I wait and hope and God is praised.
He is mighty to save. He is mighty to save.

Today I happened upon this entry in Lysa TerKeurst's blog that pealed away another layer on this topic. I thought you might be interested too.

The Root of My Rot