Choosing how I feel and act

Today is hot, dry, and busy. I could be downright irritable. I am choosing to not be. My choices contribute majorly to how the day "feels." So I choose to feel calm, cool, and collected. Now, that is a feat for me, as anybody who knows me can testify. I am a Type A, but I like to say, A-, for the Holy Spirit has done some big work in my life. I have had to learn to notice, engage, and relate with people. My agenda is not as important as people are. And I have to remind myself of that every day! Slow down, make eye contact, exchange a few words - maybe a bit of encouragement, an extra touch on the shoulder or warm hug. None of that stuff comes naturally to me. It is all an act of obedience. It's part of presenting my body to God as a living sacrifice and being transformed by the Holy Spirit. Yeah, that Romans 12:1 and 2 stuff again.

Tonight I am running a rehearsal with musicians I have never met for the training event I am having next week - ("The Call of the Worship Leader: What We Are Called To Do, Who We Are Called To Be," Wed. May 11th, 2011, Saddleback Church, Refinery Auditorium, 7-9p.m. - info: debbyr@saddleback.com). Ya'll are invited to come, it's free. Back to my point, I have to get through the day with enough energy, love, patience, and self-control to let my family know through my words and actions that I love and appreciate them. I pray I will be an encouragement to the musicians I will meet tonight. I hope the way I choose to feel and act today will bring glory to God. And that's worship in real life.