This verse really struck me today, as I’ve spent much time over the past month convincing mom that her boyfriend is telling her “stories”.

We would circle back to the truth of her accident, long recovery and finally being “home” again. How delighted she was to see her boyfriend when she was back at her apartment. They both uttered, “I love you’s”, with tears of joy.

Today, she called to tell me of their “move in” date. I responded with, “I’m so glad you’re home mom”. Outside her window is the church with a school for the children. She loves the view and it helps ground her.

Where do we keep our gaze fixed? Is it on the truth or does it stray to a “fake” story that tickles our fancy?

Common sense means it may not always “feel good” but it is the right thing to do.

In Star Camp this week (aka VBS for my grandchildren), I asked the question, “what does ‘love’ look like”? They gave some of the cutest answers- usually ending with kisses and hugs.

When I suggested that another form of love is “discipline” (The Lord disciplines the one He loves- Hebrews 12:6), they could not comprehend this. How could someone who loves them not treat them to all their favorite things? Or let them do what they want?

One of my co-workers gave me this advice (when my kids were in their “difficult” years), “I discipline them so the law doesn’t have to.”

To be a disciple is to learn something. We can also be discipled, even as those who loved their Rabbi were willing to be taught.

Lord, please give me a spirit of willingness to endure those things that are allowed though your hand- experiences that are hard but will also make me stronger. I want to learn and know your life in me. -Teresa #truth

Proverbs 22:16 (NLT)

¹⁶ The person who strays from common sense
    will end up in the company of the dead.