Is this you on Friday nights, too?

I used to love going out on Friday nights. Relaxing over dinner, maybe putt-putting or catching a movie… but after having kids, my favorite thing to do on Friday evenings is get in my cozy PJs and do something relaxing at home!

In fact, I was recently at a friend’s house for a Friday night girls’ night, and at 8:30 I told her I was going to go home.

She said, “Oh, I’m sorry you have to leave so early!” I then proceeded to inform her that I didn’t have to leave, but it was 90 minutes past pajama time so I wanted to leave! (I’m still learning tactfulness. It’s a process.)

Next time I’ll just take my PJs with me 🙂

As much as I love pajama time, the reality is that life doesn’t always work out exactly the way I hope it will. Sometimes on Friday evenings, I’m renovating my fixer-upper, going to an event, helping my kids with something they need, or taking care of any myriad of other things.

Can you relate?!

When life doesn’t go as planned, it’s important to do an attitude check: For example, when I can’t have my 7:00 pajama time on Friday night, what’s my attitude? Am I choosing to be thankful that people love me, need me, and invite me places, or am I playing the part of a martyr, grumbling that I should be home and in my PJs?

When I consider the amount of times I’ve accepted unexpected changes with a good attitude, versus the number of times I’ve grumbled about unexpected events, I’m convicted because I know my tendency is to grumble instead of choose joy.

“A joyful heart is good medicine, But a broken spirit dries up the bones.” Proverbs 17:22 NASB

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Philippians 4:6 NASB

The good news is that we can change! We can do better – God is so gracious and he loves us so much, shortcomings and all!

“The Lord is compassionate and gracious, Slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness.” Psalm 103:8 NASB

“The Lord’s lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning…” Lamentations 3:22-24 NASB

Isn’t it so comforting to remember that God loves us and is merciful towards us?!

I’d love to hear what your ideal Friday night looks like! Movie and pizza at home? Going out with friends or your family? If you could pick anything tonight, what would it be? Leave a comment and let me know!