I started September watching friends and family members struggle through various issues in their spiritual and physical lives. I cautiously asked the question of the Lord - "Lord, why isn't my life flooded with trials. I seem to have very few things to complain about, and my life is way too easy." Well, this month, although my trials were still very minuscule. I learned a lot through other struggles, I struggled and was saddened by their trials, and I dealt with a few of my own trials only to realize how sanctifying and generous the Lord is in teaching me.
Selling real estate can be very frustrating but very rewarding. It is a great career for me because I am constantly challenged and no day is ever the same. I hate monotony and so does the real estate industry. Just when I think I have a boring day ahead - I'm pleasantly (sometimes not as pleasantly) surprised to be thrown hard things.
This week I'm also learning about the dangers of seeking affirmation and the fear of man. So often I do things as a response to what others want from me. I rarely say no, and I get easily upset when someone doesn't appreciate something I do. It would take me hours to explain all the different facets of the fear of man, but your mind can wander to realize many different situations where I and most people, do not trust the Lord for our affirmation and acceptance. We don't love the Lord more than we love people. The Lord is growing me to be more consistent in my relationships by not worrying about what others think of me. This does not mean that I will not try to act appropriate and treat others fairly, but I don't need their affirmation as long as I am living my life with the Lord and scriptures as my standard.
