I absolutely adore making plans, lists, goals, resolutions, whatever. The New Year is always an inspiring time for me. I reflect on the previous year--what went right and what went wrong. I consider areas for improvement and begin furiously writing down hundreds of items that I wish to master during the present year.
Okay, not hundreds...but quite a lot.
I contrive this grand idea of who I'm going to become and how I can muster up the strength and dedication to become that someone... this is also known as perfectionism! God has been teaching me about the flawed mindset behind my perfectionism.
Do you ever find yourself trying to stop the world while you try to get your ducks in a row?
I do! Constantly.I feel as though I can't do anything of worth until I am satisfied with myself and have my life all figured out. *sigh* ...and that is SUCH a lie that Satan uses to cripple us!
Why? Because a perfect life is IMPOSSIBLE.
That impossibility is why we have the Gospel. Jesus Christ came to make us at peace with God. You and I can be used by Christ--even in our imperfection and chaotic lives--because Christ lives in us and is changing us.
And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ(!) {Philippians 1:6}
He who calls you is faithful; He(!) will surely do it. {1 Thessalonians 5:24}
Aren't those incredible verses? When we feel like we aren't yet worthy of a task or blessing...we are exactly where we should be. We have recognized our sinful and finite existence.
But, God.
But God makes the broken to be whole; He makes the ugly to be beautiful. He makes the weak to be mighty and the unlikely to be exalted. He makes the old into something new!
So yes, my ducks {and may I assume your ducks?} aren't in a row quite yet... but as I live each day He gives me the strength, grace, and wisdom to follow Him and to slowly see Him put each piece of the puzzle in place.
So what is my theme for 2013? To live primarily focused on the current day--to live each day to the greatest capacity God has for me through His strength!
But as I said, I do love me a list!!
Here's the traditional list ;)
1.
2. Sleep more! {bed by 11:30}
3. Workout 5 days a week.
4. Work systematically through books of the Bible.
5. Pray each time I enter & leave my unit & as I walk alone between classes.
6. Keep coffee minimal!!!!! {only if absolutely needed ; )
7. Minimize sweets {2 a week} focus on fruits & veggies more.
8. Eat out only once a week. Aaaaaaand.. Starbucks once a week.
9. FOLLOW THY BUDGET.
10. Play violin & piano every week. Sketch & write something everyday.
Alrighty :) Fun and hopefully manageable! Once again...day by day.
What's your theme for the year? Any resolutions? :)
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