"For in the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it." Hebrews 12:11

One of my favorite quotes is from Abraham Lincoln. He said, "Discipline is choosing between what you want now and what you want most.” I find that to be such a powerful challenge and a profound parallel to Hebrews 12:11. This holiday season, you will be faced with many small decisions. You'll decide whether to have one Christmas cookie or three. You'll decide whether to get up early to workout out or sleep in while kids are on Christmas break. You'll decide whether to enjoy the hustle and bustle or wish it away. You'll decide whether to overspend or use prudence. As you do, I encourage to reflect on Abe's wisdom and today's scripture. With each decision, simply pause and ask yourself, " What do I desire MOST? In a moment will this still matter? Does this decision line up with my goals?" If not, let it pass you by and hold your peace. In every area of our lives, we truly are the byproduct of habitual, small, good decisions. The Lord has given you a spirit of self-control. Simply ask Him to guide you with wisdom and to give you the desire to operate with self-control through each small decision this season. He will gladly reward you with a harvest of peaceful fruit for your faithfulness. Enjoy a blessed, peaceful, prudent, purposeful week.

Loving Father, thank you for the abundant blessings in my life. Thank you that my cup runs over with so much provision that I GET to choose which I lay claim to and what I let pass me by. This season, I pray that you will strenthen me to make choices that bless you, bless my life, and bless others. I desire you MOST and I long to walk in wisdom and righteousness before you. Thank you for being my strength and my guide. In Jesus name, I pray, amen.