January 1, it is when we notice the dirt that God is most present in us

No amount of falls will really undo us if we keep on picking ourselves up each time.
-C.S. Lewis

What an encouraging word to begin the new year with. I begin today with a new picking up of myself, dirt and dust and broken bits included. The fruits of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. My daily walk is one of attempting to remember to seek God first and hoping to grow these fruits. Often times I feel completely barren, much like the fig tree that Jesus withered (oh what a dreadful thought). Thank the Lord that Jesus didn't come to earth to wither us but to sanctify us, bring us into right relationship with God, and grow the fruits in us that we on our own completely lack. Praise God that no matter how many times I fall He keeps picking me back up.

"It is when we notice the dirt that God is most present in us." Anger, laziness, gluttony, lack of self control, and a hint of bitterness; I'm very aware of a good deal of dirt within this jar of clay and I'm all the more thankful for the Lord's grace and mercy as the dirty spots come into light. Today is a new day.

I know all about the despair of overcoming chronic temptations. It is not serious, provided self-offended petulance, annoyance at breaking records, impatience, ect. don't get the upper hand. No amount of falls will really undo us if we keep on picking ourselves up each time. We shall of course be very muddy and tattered children by the time we reach home. but the bathrooms are all ready, the towels put out, and the clean clothes in the airing cupboard. The only fatal thing is to lose one's temper and give it up. It is when we notice the dirt that God is most present in us; it is the very sign of His presence.
C.S. Lewis
-The Business of Heaven