The end of a year and the beginning of a new one often lead us down a familiar road - Introspection Boulevard. Yes, Introspection Boulevard is that road upon which we travel when we admit our failure to abide by last years resolutions, goals, objectives and recommit ourselves to them again, along with new ones. Instead of losing weight, weve put on a few extra pounds, instead of reaching that goal to write that book, weve written less than we had hoped (Oh, that hurt!), instead of spending more time with our loved ones, we are just a little bit more out of touch. Oh, and lets not forget the most important stuff - instead of spending more time in the Word, instead of being more involved in ministry.....the list goes on. All of this sounds a little daunting and Introspection Boulevard doesnt seem like a nice place to visit - it reminds us of our failures and that doesnt feel good. I agree, however, Introspection Boulevard is a necessary stop on our journey. It reminds us above all else, that we have not arrived - that we are still in need of a loving, longsuffering Savior who leads us from Introspection Boulevard to Dependence Valley. Yes, it is on Dependence Valley that we find freedom from resolutions and freedom from unrealized goals - most of these things we have tried and failed because we didnt have a plan, we forgot our purpose and we didnt hold onto the promise! So, get on your mark, get set, and go! Go get a plan- Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) says:
11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Find out His plan and His purpose for you. We might just uncover that His plan and our plans dont quite match! Then hold onto the promise: Philippians 1:6 - 6Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. He has begun a good work in you and He is committed to bringing it to pass. You need to envoke that same level of commitment! Dont you desire that God bring forth from you everything that He has placed within you? This gives Him glory and brings you all the more closer to Him! I know that there are things you want to do in your life - start that business, get out of debt, buy a house - there is nothing wrong with goals, objectives and plans - but maybe, just maybe we continue to fail at accomplishing our goals when we dont allow God to take full control of our lives. If God is in control then everything that is in His will to happen - happens, right? He doesnt fail, he doesnt not meet goals and objectives - he hits his mark every time. Hmm..... then if I allow Him to work through me to get things accomplished - I really can do ALL things through Him that strengthens me. So, does your goals and objectives line up with His plan, purpose and promise for you? If so, get on your mark, get set and go - past Introspection Boulevard, make a right onto Dependence Valley and you are sure to end toward His Will Highway! 2006 Candie A. Price |
