Sunday, November 26, 2017

This Changes Everything



Working the graveyard shift takes a toll on the body.  Hormones, organ function, sleep cycle, etc. were not made for night shift work.  Some can manage, adjust and end up loving the different schedule.  I, on the other hand, have tried and failed at making night shift work in my life. 

My body screams for regular sleeping pattern, eating habits, daylight and less caffeine intake.  Trying to sleep when the hour on the clock reveals daytime comes with difficulty.  It just ain’t happin’! 

 “16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”  1Thessalonians 5:16-18

I would like to share a few lessons learned over the past 4 months of night shift work. . .

Rejoice always:  I rejoice while driving to a job that provides financial stability for my loved ones.  I rejoice for the opportunity to be the hands that provide care to individuals in need of love, a smile, a hand to hold and tuck them in at night.  I rejoice during this chapter in life and appreciate all growth taking place. 

Pray continually:  Oh boy, do I pray continually!  I pray for strength to fulfill the requirements of being a nurse.  I pray for guidance, focus, love and patience for each 12 hour shift.  I pray for my children to understand why parents must be absent at times in order to earn money.  I pray for understanding when the toughest of moments seem to be written in this chapter.  I pray for help when tears want to fall. 

Give thanks:  Although I don’t have it all together, have no idea where this chapter may lead and feel lost most days; I am full of thanks.  I am thankful for recovery and watching as God leads me through circumstances with His strength.  I am thankful for the progress night shift provides in my recovery process.  I am thankful for the little things: having a husband who loves me with all his heart, children to help around the house and care for each other, time spent with loved ones and coffee (you gotta be thankful for coffee).  😊

Night shift is miserable for me.  Some love it!  I hate it!  But, I am not surprised of all the good that came thus far from working these hours.  Was taking this job the right choice for me?  Maybe, maybe not; but, with continual rejoicing, praying and shifting all thoughts to thanks, God is taking every moment lived and working it out for good.  I am confident of such Truth. . .          

28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”  Romans 8:28

I stand firm on His Truth in this matter.  He takes my tears, exhaustion, worries and fears and uses them in this chapter.  This chapter is preparing me for whatever lay ahead.  The strength, confidence and eye-opening experiences each day/night work into His Plan for me. 

Knowing this Truth does not keep me immune to the enemy’s schemes.  The enemy prowls, looking to demolish all the good revealed in my story.  God defeats our enemy without even breaking a sweat. . .

My dear friends, wherever life may lead, know that God never leaves nor forsakes.  The decisions we make daily may cause difficult circumstances; but, laying each one at the Cross, rejoicing, praying and giving thanks changes everything.  Our spirit strengthens as Truth demands the enemy to vanish.  Our attitude brightens as thankfulness drowns out fear.  Our eyes open to God as conversation brings Him into every moment. 

Take this chapter in your life and walk confidently with God.  He always shows up.  He works in the situation to grow your spirit, preparing you for Eternity.  He holds a prosperous future for you.  Hang on dear friend!  Find the silver lining by filling your heart with Truth, worship our God and give thanks for the Eternal life He prepares for you. 


Live life. . .One Day at a time!  

Sheree Craig   

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