I am more than 36 weeks pregnant. I am tired, unwieldy and a little uncomfortable. In short, I am ready for this baby to be born. In addition, I have had busy weeks, not enough sleep and last minute changes of plan, which I really don't like.
I also spend most of last week snapping at my children, grumping around the house and generally bemoaning my plight. Now, I know some would suggest that it's hardly surprising - heavily pregnant + tired + uncomfortable = some moaning and a short temper. After all, "I'm only human". But is that all? Is that enough? Does my discomfort justify my sin?
On the cross, Jesus did not revile His mockers, but forgave them. (Lk 23:34). In prison, Paul and Silas sang praise and worship to God (Acts 16:25). Being stoned, Stephen forgave his murderers (Acts 7:59-60). My Christian heritage is full of testimonies of faithful believers who faced persecution with joy, so how can I - a woman married to a godly man, enjoying excellent health and living in one of the most prosperous and free countries in the world - even suggest that I have the right to complain?
The kindness of God not only brings comfort and peace, but also the conviction of sin that separates us from Him. It is by His grace alone that today I can thank Him for the discomforts that come with pregnancy, because it means that He has blessed me with a new life to love and train for His glory.
His mercies are new every morning!
