Although I know this is true (why is it so hard to believe)? You know what I mean? Please say yes.

It is very difficult, at times, like today, to "feel" His delight. In fact, I'm feeling pretty down in the dumps. I know, you come here to read funny and hopefully motivating posts, but I also promise to keep it real. Being real doesn't equal being happy all the time.

Sometimes, life hurts. Sometimes it hurts more than others. Other times, well, it hurts a lot.

Sorry, guys, this is geared toward the ladies today. However, I hope you might be able (as a man) to glean some insight into how we feel (us gals). Maybe you feel the same way, too.

For those of you who have experienced the tragedy of divorce or separation, you understand that sometimes communication between the "Ex's" can be difficult (to put it mildly). In my case, today has been more than difficult. It's been one of those days when pain, anger, and, yes, resentment (that I thought was gone) assaulted my heart with a vengeance.

Isn't that old song, "Breaking up is hard to do" the truth? Even though in my case it's been over a decade there are still flare ups of major discomfort. So much seems to revolve around finances, broken promises, and trying, of course, to do what is best for the kids. It is always advisable to not -- ever -- speak negatively about the other parent. Oooooh! Sometimes that is really, really hard.

Today, is one of those days. I'm choosing to stay away from details, but let's just say that this money thing continues to cause a major rift in our lives. Then the "if you were a REAL Christian" you wouldn't act like THIS! Ouch! Ehem. Ehem. (that's a little coughing sound) gets thrown my way like a fastball right over the plate. (its' baseball season)

YES, I'M A CHRISTIAN BUT I STILL HAVE FEELINGS. I STILL EVEN SAY AN IMPERFECT WORD OR TWO. Apparently, though, that in someone (won't mention any names) else's eyes disqualifies me from my Christianhood. Wow, would anyone qualify?

Friends, aren't you grateful, super grateful that when we mess up we can confess, repent, and trust God's grace will cover us? and our mistakes? It's funny sometimes what the world thinks Christians should act like. Yet, on the other hand, often times, we don't set a very good example.

I think admitting our mistakes is huge. Turning the other cheek, for me, is one of the most difficult challenges I face on this planet. The need to "be right" can be overwhelming, especially in this relationship.

How can we balance this all out with everyone around us watching?

Well, we do our best, with the power of God's Spirit to live like Jesus lived. However, unlike Him, we stumble, bumble, and say stupid things. That's where His forgiveness comes in.

James was so right when he talked about (in the Book of James) our tongue being such a little bitty part of our make up, yet, it has the ability to cause so much damage. For me, on occaision, it feels like that little piece of pink flesh has a mind of its own. It just makes my mouth say things. You know what I mean?

Then, I'm again reminded (by the Holy Spirit) that out of the wellspring of my heart springs my words. Ug. Back to me again. So this gunk is really still in there? Still?

God delights in me. Really?

Yes. You, too.

Christ makes it possible. Thank you, Jesus. Thank you!