Have to Love Hanging Stuff

Late yesterday afternoon I arrived home ready for a nice dinner and some time to relax from a busy day that included working out just before I came home. When I went to freshen up, Tami followed me, looking excited about something. When I asked why, she informed me that she was eager for me to hang the new decorations she had purchased that day.

I knew that dinner had to be prepared, dishes done, and pans hand washed. I told her that there was a lot to do and that it’d be better if I waited until Friday when I was off work. Tami told me that she wanted it done right after my shower, so I knew that I would be hanging things in a short time.

It’s not that I mind hanging things, but I prefer to do it at a time of my choosing, when I’m alone so I can take breaks or relax if I get frustrated because things are not going right, and when I’m not coming off a busy day. So, needless to say, my excitement level was far different than Tami’s. When I entered our family room I saw that I was not just hanging one shelf but two, almost side-by-side. Each would have to be hung level with the shelf next to it, but they were a funky shape so that made it more difficult. Also, the notches where the screw heads would hold up the shelves would have to be calculated into the measurements.

All said and done, the project was accomplished and it all looks nice. The hanging process brought stress and caused me to not be the most patient of men. I don’t think I said or did anything that I’d be ashamed of, but why do I allow such a simple thing to frustrate me? I know Tami, and I know she is enjoying her home, so you’d think that I’d just relax and do the project. Unfortunately I get the same way in my spiritual life. I’m a person who likes routine and I know my routine. When God starts messing with my routine, it creates stress in my life that I don’t want; however, I need to remember that God isn’t there for my comfort but to teach me how to be a better man. That means stretching me by tossing in a project or activity that I may wish to avoid but will learn through: learning patience, trusting Him, and doing whatever I’m asked, when I’m asked—not to make my life easier, but to make me stronger!