Remember that old Johnny Lee song “Looking For Love?” It’s from a just-as-old movie called “Urban Cowboy” from what I’ve been told. 🙂
I don’t think I’ve heard that song in years but for some reason as I was loading the van to hit the road to Spartanburg this morning, it was playing in my mind. Maybe you’ll recognize the lyrics:
I thought it was funny …
I was looking for love in all the wrong places
Looking for love in too many faces (grumpy, tired faces this morning)
Searching thier eyes looking for traces (any hint, really)
What I’m dreaming of
So here’s what I was dreaming of …
- cooperation
- good attitudes
- the breakfast genie to show up
- a little less pollen
- ____ fill in the blank
I was looking for joy in all the wrong places 🙂 Or the illusion of joy anyway. 🙂
And then I remembered–the devil likes to lie about stuff. He lies about joy.
He’ll tell you money will make you happy. But it won’t. And it’s not the money, it’s the pursuit of it. Because joy, true JOY, is not found in power, passion or possessions. Or even in my kids obeying with a smile on their face.
(But that would have been extra-great this morning.)
It’s found in a personal relationship with God.
Satisfaction is found in the Lord and in His Word.
Joy will never be found under the sun … but above it … where God is.
Today, busy mom, let’s keep our joy in plain sight. Let’s fix our eyes on Jesus, and run the race that’s set before us with the joy that comes from following Jesus.
Remember those trees that are “firmly planted?” They’re rooted in Christ!
Lean into Him while you do laundry for the millionth time. Talk to Him about your kids. Ask Him to show you how to love your husband.
He has something to say to you.
Looking for joy? He’ll show you where to find it. And where joy is, strength is.
“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10b
Great post…I needed it this morning. It’s been a rough couple of weeks for all of us, and I need to remember that the childrens attitudes will need more understanding and grace, and that I need to find my joy in HIM. Thank you.
(by the way, Johnny Lee sang that song, not Kenny Rogers….unless there is a version I am unfamiliar with)
Hi there! Great blog! I must say, though, Kenny Rogers doesn’t sing that song. That sound actually was sung by Johnny Lee. Sorry, I’m a HUGE Urban Cowboy fan which is why I know!
Rats!! I’ve never seen the movie. Better fix it 🙂
Thanks Rachel 🙂 I changed it – I’ve never heard of Johnny Lee but I sure remember that song! Next time I’ll know who to give credit to 🙂
I am new to your blog. I just discovered The Busy Homeschool Mom through FB. I just wanted to tell you that I think of your family and pray for you often. I live within a mile of I-70 and I pray for your travels when I hear loud trucks or rumble strips. Mama, you are doing the business that God called you to do. Satan has certainly taken notice. You are encouraging other mamas along the way. You are making a difference in your home and others’. Thank you for your labors. Your days on the road are even longer than usual, you are in a situation that places you in total dependence on God for strength – and that’s just where you ought to be. You’re doing a great job, mama. Keep up the good work, you ARE making a difference.
Your partner for prayer and encouragement,
Bethany Woods
Thank you so much! ((Hugs))
Amen! Last weekend I learnt hope, today I need to keep looking to the Lord and find joy. Joy is not dependent on circumstances – God has it right there for us always. Praying for you today, as I have been since you hit the road. Hugs, friend.
I have been grumping and in tears most of the morning. Not enough sleep. Too much laundry. Not enough help. Too many “piles”. Not enough consideration. Too many lessons left before the end of the year. Not enough room in my waistband. Too many squabbles.
This is exactly the reminder I needed this morning. My joy is in Christ! Duh! And I’ve made the blessings a burden. Would I rather have NO ONE to clean up after, teach, and love? It’s a no-brainer once you step back. Thank you for gently pushing me there!
Heidi,
I gratefully stumbled upon your blog on FB this week and I’m so glad I did! God is using you mightily as you encourage many tired moms across the nation. I’m amazed at where you find the time and I appreciate your efforts and Sacrifice. May God continue to richly bless you and your family as you encourage others along life’s journey. ” This is the day that the Lord has made, I WILL rejoice and be glad in it!”
God bless you sweet girl. Needing the joyful words and reminders to push through and wrap up another school year. It was a fun year with a 13, 11, and 5 year old. The discussions have been rich with my two older girls. Then I change hats and dance and sing with my son who started kindergarten. A busy, but fruit filled school year. Praying for your precious family and all those busy homeschool moms you will bless as you share the truth about Christ Jesus.