Unlike last year, I don't have a list of goals for the coming months...my one goal is wrapped up in being.
In my thinking and praying about the New Year and what lies ahead, the Lord really impressed on me that being consistent is the key issue in my life that needs improving.
Oh sure, there's a bazillion new things I could begin, but I just want to do what I'm already doing well. And that requires consistency.
Being consistent is just plain old hard work. It takes SO much discipline. It's the little choices you make all through the day. Years ago, I was a very disciplined person. I was the gal who always got up on time and never EVER did I hit that blasted snooze button.
But slowly over time as the responsibilities have grown, it is more difficult than ever to be consistent in the things that matter. Instead, I've become consistent in things that are detrimental, i.e., I hit the snooze button. (And that's one example of many!) Those little choices are tearing down the life habits of consistency I built so long ago.
Why is being consistent in the habits of life so important? Think about these quotes....
"Character is, for the most part, habit become fixed." --C.H. Parkhurst
"Sow an act, and you reap a habit; sow a habit, and you reap a character; sow a character, and you reap a destiny." --George Boardman
"Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved." --Helen Keller
These little habits are shaping my character, and ultimately will shape the character of my children. That's a scary thought, isn't it? Through my example I want to teach them how to consistently "sow" right choices each and every day in order to "reap" good character.
I want to look back at the end of this year and see minutes, days, weeks and months purposefully lived out in a manner that is honoring and pleasing to the Lord. I don't want to regret that I did not "redeem the time" simply because I was so erratic in my daily choices.
Be consistent....that's my simple, yet super difficult goal of 2013.
Have you set any new goals this year? Any word or phrase in particular that would summarize what you hope to achieve in 2013?
Good article. Great challenge!
ReplyDeleteConsistent is definitely up there on my list as well!
ReplyDeleteI also want to live more for the moment and take time to make memories with family, friends, and those whom we work with in ministry.
Great challenge, Laine! Since that is what the Lord has laid on your heart to work on, then I KNOW He will guide you in your endeavor:)For 2013, I guess you can sum it up to living the life God has given me, truly as a child of God. If I submit myself to Him in this way, then all of my goals, will have been met. These are not only spiritual goals, but physical, mental and emotional goals.
ReplyDeleteWhew! I am right there with you. I was an extremely organized and pay-attention to detail type of a person. Not so much any more...at least I feel that way. Thanks for reminding me to do better at consistency. ;)
ReplyDeleteDeep. Thank u!
ReplyDeleteGreat challenge, Laine! We all could be more consistent at many things.
ReplyDeleteIn addition to the way consistency will help your personal life, your children also will thank you for it! Such an important goal!
ReplyDeleteI set a few goals for 2013...not too many, but enough to grow and challenge certain areas of my life. You can read them here if you want: http://nicoleslifeafter20.blogspot.com/2013/01/2013-goals.html