Self-Discipline

Don't you know that the runners in a stadium all race, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to win the prize. Now everyone who competes exercises self-control in everything. However, they do it to receive a crown that will fade away. Therefore I do not run like one who runs aimlessly or box like one beating the air. Instead, I discipline my body and bring it under strict control, so that after preaching to others, I myself will not be disqualified. 1 Cor 9:25-27

I have just been through another fire and found that I still squark like a chicken being hunted for the kill. Oh dear! My mother's post surgery experience was not good and being the eldest and an ex-nurse I was left to take charge. My mum developed a urinary tract infection and her bowel was quite disturbed, to say the least, lack of awareness of diabetes and lack of food by hospital staff and the list goes on. I ended up giving mum the personal care I would wish for her and monitored the nursing in the hospital. Neglect was everywhere. I became cross and have written a letter. I am glad I did not post it but emailed it to my sister in Tasmania, who is still a nurse.

Amidst all this there was exams, audits, lack of business, lack of funds but I knew my God would not fail me, and He hasn't.

As someone who loves exercise, who has been in triathlons and marathon bike rides I understand self-discipline. I had to control my confession about the future and provision whilst dealing with bad patient care. I had to remind my mother of God's goodness and to comfort herself with scripture. Her favourite is : if God be for me, who can be against me. It is probably the only scripture she knows by heart. But she knows the power it has. During my difficult times she has quoted it to me. You see you only need one scripture and it has power to save, heal and deliver and this one does.

I vent well, I think too well. I would prefer to vent to the Lord alone, unfortunately I am not there yet. However, I did not destroy anyone, praise God. I kept myself in check. I can say that private health care is so much better than public health care. My mum ended up in a private hospital for a few days, now she is coming home to me for a few days.

I passed my exam, made peace with my creditors and encouraged my staff. Managing my world is important. Others depend on us. Now to rest and recuperate, roll on Christmas. Amen!