I learned something today.

One of my struggles is a tendency to always say “no” to a new idea or to pick an idea apart and give all the reasons why it won’t work.  For years now, I’ve been retraining myself to be more proactive.  Instead of saying “I/we can’t,” I’m trying to say, “This is an important thing for us to do to become more successful.  How can we make it happen?” 

I’m worse about this at home – especially if there is a cost to it.  My wife has unfortunately come to expect me to say “no” automatically if there is a price. 

Today she sent me something to do with homeschooling our kids that was pretty expensive.  Typically in the past I would have read it, found the part where the cost was printed, and gotten a bit upset. 

The voice in my head goes something like this.  “We’re working a budget aren’t we?  This doesn’t fit.  Doesn’t she understand how important it is to me to get our debts paid off?  Why is she always adding this kind of pressure?”

Today it struck me how unfaithful that attitude is.  Don’t I claim to believe in a God who wants the best for me?  Don’t I claim to have a strong faith?

I think I need more work on changing my perspective.  I should see this through her eyes.  She works hard to teach our younger five children.  I get overwhelmed just at the thought of trading places with her.  I should listen to what her heart is trying to tell me.  I should be more faithful and trusting in the God who wants the best for her.  Maybe instead of saying “no” and shutting God out I should get out of the way and give God the chance to provide the money we’ll need. 

How about you?  Do you believe in the God who will fight for your best and pull through for you or do you believe in the god of “no?”