Name Your Battles

The Catholic Mom’s Prayer Companion
November 7
Name Your Battles

I know what it is to have little, and I know also how to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. In any case, it was kind of you to share my distress.
Philippians 4:12-14

One way you can approach your day is to name your battles. The tasks may seem impossible and they may well be—for you. God does the impossible—through you. Because he lives in your heart, every characteristic of his nature available to your nature.

Circumstances turn on a dime, but what is your constant? What no-matter-what tool do you have? Praise — in all things.

Balance that list of looming battles by listing the characteristics of God you need to help you through today. Then praise him for each attribute. Many were bestowed at your Baptism, Confirmation, or in the sacrament of Matrimony. They increase with every Reconciliation and Eucharist.

If you start the day sleep-deprived, take a deep breath and praise him for perseverance. If you face a battle with gluttony, praise him for the self-control that will be there when you need it. Doubting God’s providence in financial matters? Thank him for trusting in his provision for you today. Discouraged? Praise God for his courage within you. Confused? Praise him for wisdom. Frustrated? Praise him for patience. Your praise for God will grow immensely as you continue to keep praising him as you win today’s battles.

Lord, I praise you for being present in every circumstance in my life and providing me with every grace I need.

To Ponder: How can naming your battles and praising God change your daily circumstances?

Nancy H C Ward

Excerpt from The Catholic Mom’s Prayer Companion, Ave Maria Press, 2016, © Lisa M. Hendey and Sarah A. Reinhard

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