crystal clear ???

My granddaughter and I made crystal ornaments last week for her to take home to put on her Christmas tree. We read and followed the directions closely. They turned out beautifully. So, yesterday I decided to make some more for my tree. I didn't look at the directions this time but rather, resorted to memory. That's pretty much how I am every time I make something. I follow the directions the first time and then the second time..I don't. I took my time; carefully adding the water, the Borax, and then boiling the water until it all dissolved. I was very careful to go through all the steps and add the ingredients, as I remembered it. I looked patiently for crystals to form all afternoon. I started to worry a little. I knew that it didn't take that long the last time we made them. I kept looking. But, no crystals. By night fall, I was pretty sure something wasn't right. I got up the next morning and went straight outside to look at my little project, hoping for a miracle. Still, no crystals. Just a mason jar full of water. I guess that's what happens when you don't follow directions, you don't get the desired results.  I finally decided to look at the recipe again. My memory had not served me well. I had failed to add the right proportions of Borax to the water. In fact, I missed the mark by a long shot.  I was disappointed in myself, realizing once again how stubborn I can be and how I rely on myself way too much.  And... I might add... a touch of laziness too.  After my walk and talk with Jesus this morning, it got me thinking about my mistake and how this relates to my life in a spiritual sense. Time with Him always puts things in the right perspective. He always gently teaches, corrects, and encourages. And all without one single spec of condemnation. I realize that I rely on myself and my way too much at times. Jesus is the only way...and I need to follow Him completely... with my whole heart. I don't have to though. I can even follow him halfheartedly or from a distance. But, if I make that choice, I should never expect to live a life in His fullness. But, because of his loving kindness to me and His faithfulness over and over again,  I want to come to him everyday in prayer, reading His word, and meditating on His love for me. I don't want just a memory of Him. I want His fellowship daily in my life.  His recipe will never fail...He promises. It might be in my best interest to follow it ♡

♥sammie jean♥

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22