16 So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4:16 (ESV)
In my attempts to promote the comfort of my family, the quiet of my spirit
has been disturbed. Some of this is doubtless owing to physical weakness;
but, with every temptation, there is a way of escape; there is never any
need to sin. Another thing I have suffered loss from,—entering into the
business of the day without seeking to have my spirit quieted and directed.
So many things press upon me, this is sometimes neglected; shame to me that
it should be so.
This is of great importance, to watch carefully,—now I am so weak—not to
over-fatigue myself, because then I cannot contribute to the pleasure of
others; and a placid face and a gentle tone will make my family more happy
than anything else I can do for them. Our own will gets sadly into the
performance of our duties sometimes.
ELIZABETH T. KING.
I was unable to ascertain which Elizabeth King was quoted in today's reading from Mary Tilton's Daily Strength for Daily Needs, but since Tilton wrote her book in 1884, it is doubtful Elizabeth is any of the Elizabeth King's that show up readily on a Google search. However, her words are relevant in 2014 for the start of a new school year.
As life ramps up in anticipation of August 12, it will once again be easy to enter "into the business of the day without seeking to have my spirit quieted and directed." The "placid face and gentle tone" will be in jeopardy as a result of deadlines, pressures, and requirements, and as a result, the happiness of the home suffers.
It is only through a renewed commitment to practice the spiritual disciplines can this be averted. Morning meditation, prayer, and Bible reading become of the utmost importance. The old saying reminds us, "Forewarned is forearmed." Today's reading is an important reminder to all school administrators, teachers, and others returning to work from a long summer break.
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