POOPED-OUT PIETY

Saturday, March 19, 2011

Years ago Peggy Lee recorded a hit song titled, "Is That All There Is?"

Somewhere along the way, most of us have probably asked that question.

John Cheever said: "The main emotion of the adult American who has had all the advantages of wealth, education, and culture is disappointment."

Even Christians get disappointed and discouraged because, let's face it, every goal is not achieved. There are limits in life.

Regardless of what happened to the little engine that could, there are some mountains too steep to climb.

Back when I was preaching every Sunday, it was Monday that found me pooped out--physically and spiritually. Now, it's after big disappointments but sometimes it's after a great time of joy. After every mountain top there is a valley.

When this happens we need to get our eyes back on the goal.

We're not home yet!

"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, 
and no mind has imagined
what God has prepared
for those who love him."
                                                                          1 Corinthians 2:9


11 comments:

Debbie Petras said...

Sometimes I feel like that adorable little baby! Love that image Clif. But thank you for reminding me to get my eyes back on the goal. We all need a reminder now and then.

Blessings,
Debbie

Anonymous said...

I find that Spiritual Sunday posts really refresh me. I need that boost after a busy, stressful week.
Boy, there are sure times I have an expression on my face like that little guy's.

Nikki (Sarah) said...

this really speaks to me. I felt this way this week too. It's almost like giving away parts of yourself and then needing to fill up all over again.

Kaye Swain - SandwichINK for the Sandwich Generation said...

What an adorable picture! And what a great illustration it is for these words and Scripture to remind us to keep our eyes fixed on God - in good times AND bad, remembering that, no matter what, HE is IN CONTROL. What a blessing that is to remember, especially this week, in light of the situation in Libya, and in Japan - still reeling from the earthquake, tsunami, and aftershocks. Thank you!

Mevely317 said...

Wow, Mr. Cheever's observation is spot-on! That never occurred to me.
Love what your FB wrote about Ecclesiastes experiences. Yes, "The best is yet to come, and won't it be fine!"

MTJ said...

Hi Clif,

Thank you for sharing words that help understand that in this life, I will experience both peaks and valleys. The important thing for me to remember, is that the Lord is with me through each experience; whether it is one of great joy, or tremendous sorrow.

I'm seeking to be consistent in my relationship with Christ. No matter what type of experience I encounter in my ascendant journey, I desire to remain faithful; trusting in the Lord Jesus.

Blessings and peace.

MTJ

Ginger~~Enchanting Cottage said...

I look forward to spending time with friends far away and when leaving I feel like I'm in the valley.Your picture is beautiful,thank-you
God Bless,
Ginger

Pamela said...

Our pastor talked about the mountain top and valleys today, too. We wouldn't enjoy the mountain top if we never had a valley. "Through it all, I've learned to trust in Jesus, learned to trust in God..." We're headed for something better than a mountain top -- something we've never heard or seen. I'm looking forward to it!

michelle said...

in the valley here... thanks for the encouraging words. =)

Donnie said...

That was so uplifting. Have a blessed day.

Cathy said...

I love that cute little picture, Clif, and your ending verse. Thanks for another great post.