Kissing the Grinch Goodbye

It was one of those mornings where I just wasn’t in a good mood. Nothing seemed to be going right. On top of the routine morning chaos, I misplaced my keys, making me 20 minutes late for work.

I had finally made it into the building. In the elevator one of the maintenance men hopped on board and made conversation.

“You just getting here?” He asked.

“I am,” I said.

“You running a little late, aren’t ya?” He asked in his southern drawl.

“Yes, I am.” I responded reluctantly.

“Figured as much,” he said.

I stared blankly.

“Well, have a good day!” he said as he exited the elevator at his stop.

I know that there is no visible hormone rage detector, but perhaps one should be invented?

Figured as much????!!!!  What exactly did he mean by that? Fuel the fire, why don’t you!

For his safety and my sanity, it’s a good thing he got off the elevator when he did! It was just not the day.

I sat at my desk for a while anticipating what else might throw a monkey wrench in my day. It was one of those where one little thing might send me over the edge and I’d feel entitled to snap!

But then the Still Small voice spoke… You don’t have to give into that feeling.

Wait, are You talking to me?

You don’t have to give into the bad mood just because you feel it right now. You are free to choose. You are free to respond in love. You are free to be grateful instead of hateful if you’d like.

I am? You mean I’m not stuck like this for the next 3 hours??

I really needed the reminder that I was not obligated to entertain the negativity.

As I prayed, an image came to mind of the Grinch physically being kicked out of the room I was in. The impression I got was that God was affirming my right to protect my heart from the nonsense, so I could be free to enjoy my blessings and leave others with cheer.

I love when God reminds me of my choice. I am no longer a slave to sin… or to housing the Grinch. I’m a daughter of the King.

Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom…

No pressure, just empowerment.

Opportunity, not obligation.

Rest instead of weary.

Success without my striving.

In His presence, there is peace.

May we all celebrate our freedom this Christmas season & in the coming year!

God,

Thank You for how You provide perfectly for me. Thank You for freeing me. Empower me to reflect my gratitude for all that You’ve done in my life. Help me to remember my rights as Your beloved when I face adversity or inconveniences today. Amen

Merry Christmas,

Payton