your defining moment

As life circumstances change and begin to change us I have pondered the question...."What is it that defines us?" What is it that shapes who we are.

Is it the car you drive, the music you listen to, the clothes you wear or your make-up or hair? Is it your looks, style or maybe a little more spiritual...is it your personal beliefs and convictions that shape us? Do we ever arrive at a place where we say...Ok, now I am here and have reached the goal for which I set out? Or are we constantly changing and pursing and striving?

I would say that just as the earths form can be changed by the atmosphere that surrounds it, so can we be affected by our surroundings. A rock tumbling in the stream will become more smooth over time and wind blowing against a tree can bend the strong branches. But does the rock grumble that it is being rolled around down the stream asking God to stop the river? Does the tree beg God to calm the wind?
No, as a matter of fact it says they will praise Him.

Luke 19:40 (NIV)
⁴⁰ “I tell you,” he replied, “if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”

Isaiah 55:12 (NIV)
¹² You will go out in joy

    and be led forth in peace;
the mountains and hills
    will burst into song before you,
and all the trees of the field
    will clap their hands.

Let the river of life flow and let it bring life. Allow the wind and the Holy Spirit bend your heart closer to the Fathers heart. Do not become bitter and angry about life and it's circumstances. Press in and ask God to show you how you can grow and change through your surroundings. Don't let what you have or don't have define you. Allow God to bring change to your heart and let Him be what defines you. Life is never a walk in the park, it will be challenging, possibly overwhelming and even devastating. But with Christ, it can also be joy filled, even through the valley.
I can't always manage to be happy, but the joy of the Lord is still my strength.

Psalm 28:7 (NIV)

⁷ The Lord is my strength and my shield;
    my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.
My heart leaps for joy,
    and with my song I praise him.

Let the joy of the Lord define you today.