Things never seem to be where I want them to be. Just about the time I manage to get my ends together someone goes and moves the middle - leaving me in that same place that I just left. The constant spinning of my wheels has left me exhausted, frustrated and ready to find my white flag. Desperation can be a lonely and dark place to live.

I noticed something when the tornadoes came through on April 27th. The light from a fire, lamp or even a flashlight was easier to see when there were no other lights competing for the attention. Even the stars seemed to shine a little brighter during those nights.

It is the darkest moments that make it easiest to see the light. The struggles I have faced over the last several years (and even over the last several months) have prompted me to turn my attention to the brilliance of the Proverbs 31 woman. I needed the life that she so flawlessly displayed. I discovered that her life was not perfect, but it found perfection in the daily representation of all the lessons that preceded her chapter.

Living and giving encouragement – Simple changes in my attitude and my actions began to provide me with the foundation I needed to begin living a life of encouragement.

Bearing fruit in all and through all –Good fruit comes from soil that is well prepared, seeds that are properly planted and cared for and a harvest that is brought in at the proper time.

Developing an attractive life –Creating an attractive life means investing the consistency to walk in the calling and being willing to sacrifice self for what is right for the temple.

Growing a life of wisdom –Searching for wisdom and knowledge persistently develops a heart that is led by the Spirit and not by the limitations of the flesh.

Creating a life of organization – An organized life offers more. It creates more space. Organization opens up time and finances. Getting to a place of organization may not be easy for everyone, but it is necessary to reach a life extraordinary.

Becoming rested – A rested life means contentment and not a lack of action. Finding the right balance for my life requires understanding my own journey and learning to enjoy that journey no matter where I find myself on the path.

Giving it away – Giving requires more than relinquishing possessions. The art of giving comes from ears that listen, eyes that choose to see and a heart centered outside of self.

Finding the Right focus – One life completely focused on God can change the world.

Digging into the wisdom of Proverbs returned my hope and brought with it a new boldness to pursue my passion and purpose. I found the strength and determination that would allow me to walk through the storms with a peace that passes all understanding. Joy remained even when chaos managed to surround my life. I have become a slave, but I have found that the Master I serve provides the ultimate freedom for my life - and that has released me to trust in my obedience one day at a time.

Kathryn Lang writes and speaks on topics that focus on the good, positive and uplifting. She seeks to provide inspiration and motivation for the hearts and lives of others. You can get more tips about living an encouraged life with her new book, “Practical Proverbs,” now available. The book focuseson 8 traits from Proverbs and practical tips to make those traits a part of your life. Find out more about Kathryn and her Proverbs journey by visiting her websitewww.kathrynlang.com or visitingwww.proverbs31life.com.