Not Ruled by Emotions

Not Ruled by Emotions- Isaac's 7th birthday

I remember my son's 5th birthday so vividly. I was excited for his party but extremely sad about this reality-- he'll start kindergarten this year and he's still not speaking sentences. He is still noticeably behind in many areas. He still has autism. I remember crying and crying...sobbing and praying. I let it all out. Then wiped my tears and begin the party prep. I got through the day and although I knew I was blessed ....I had a lump in my throat all day and all year. Fast forward to year 7. Jan 2 2015 Isaac turns 7. We had a great day! At the end of the day I gasped. Lord thank you I wasn't sad today! We got through his birthday and I felt fine. My boy is 7 years old and I couldn't be more thankful. You have done miracles in him. He has autism but that's ok. I was content. "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances" God got me through another birthday and I didn't get sad, cry and weep about autism. In fact this was the first year we sang happy birthday and he didn't cover his ears (because of overstimulation, sensory overload) He smiled as we sang and he blew out the candle.

Part of the journey of autism is the parent's journey. God wants my joy to be constant not circumstantial. In His presence is fullness of joy. Psalm 16:11

So whether Isaac is having a good day or bad day a good week or bad week I must choose to not let my emotions rule me.

Proverbs 4:23 (KJV)
Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.

Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. (NLT)

This 7th birthday was a victory. Jesus (not autism and not my emotions) was winning! Jesus was giving me the hope I needed for the day. "It's ok God that Isaac is a year older and is still behind in many areas, I'm going to focus on Your goodness on your steadfast love on your Arms that carry me through, I'm not going to let my emotions take me to the island of sadness I'm going to dive in the ocean of grace ...I'm going to stand with my arms lifted high and my battle armor on! I'm a wounded warrior but today I can have some rest because God helped me through another year and God chose me to raise Isaac so instead of a pity party I will rejoice!" This is the day The Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it! Psalm 118:24 He turned my mourning into dancing! Psalm 30:11 I will praise Him for Isaac is fearfully and wonderfully made! Psalm 139:14

Don't discount these days of victory. Write it down, tell a friend, blog about it, deflect the glory back to God because He's working and that's victorious!