Quality Time

As I was scrolling through pictures trying to decide what I wanted to blog about today, I came across this picture that was taken a few short weeks ago. Ashley and I were on our way for some girl time. 

It's amazing how your attitude reflex how you treat others. Day after day with the kids home for summer break and doing the same thing routinely can get old. I know you all know what I'm talking about. We decided that it was our time to have some quality time, do a little shopping (Ashley earned money from babysitting) and having a much needed freshman talk. 

It's very important to spend this time with your children. They grow up fast and sooner than you know it, they are out of the house. That's how it was for me growing up. My mom being a single mom and working several jobs, my sister and I did the chores, and cooked for ourselves. We didn't have that quality time that I desired in my heart. Just like Ashley, God wants our quality time too. He wants our attention and a relationship with Him. He want's to give us His desires to love, accept and respect the people in our life. This is the same thing that I want for Ashley. She is growing so quickly and entering High School and my heart aches but I'm also joyful. The next two years is going to mold the person that Ashley is going to grow up to be, and the time her and I spend together is going to be the most important time in her life. Jonah also takes Ashley on dates or a coffee in the morning for a surprise treat. 

The time I spend with Ashley is priceless. I am pouring my heart into her and teaching her and showing her Christ love. Of course we get silly sometimes and do silly things. We can't be serious all the time. After all God has a sense of humor too, right? :) Everyone desires a level of fulfillment in their relationship, whether it's in a friendship, a dating relationship, in parenting or in marriage. Keep in mind that Jesus always wants what is best for you. That means Christ wants to give you His desires to love, accept and respect the people in your life. Jesus is challenging you to surrender your agenda and accept the plans He has for you. The quality of our relationships is contingent on your acceptance and understanding of God's love for you. Rob Eager said, "Before you can truly love another person, however, you must first understand how much you are already loved."

Just as I am taking the time to spend with Ashley we all need to take the time to reflect on God's faithful love so you can share his love with those around you. Genuine love and affection comes from knowing and experiencing God's love through Jesus Christ. 

I am blessed to have a wonderful and beautiful daughter. It's not to late to make a difference in those lives around you. Whether they are your children, or your neighbor or maybe someone at the grocery store, reflect Jesus' love. Remember Ephesians 5:1-2: Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Share HIS love today with the one's you LOVE and to those you encounter!

God Bless

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