We have flipped our calendars not only to a new month but to a new year. I have never been a big New Year’s resolution person. I do like to take the New Year as a time of evaluation. I like to see what I can do better. Some things I just need to drop. Then there are some things I need to start.
The problem many of us have is in the area of diligence. We start well but then over time we drop the ball. Short-term failures often discourage us from long-term success. One aspect of diligence is to start again after a setback.
Another stumbling block for many is the confusion over transformation versus quick fixes. Transformation is the restructuring of our mental and spiritual perspectives. What we believe (spiritual) and what we think (mental) are the driving forces in how we live. We erroneously think short-term solutions will solve lifetime problems. Lifestyle changes are necessary for lifelong solutions. This is difficult for the TikTok generation.
We also need to focus on the most important things. Minutes can turn to hours over frivolous things like social media. The short-term ‘urgent’ matters often rob the long-term important things in our lives. As Christians, we can start with the basics. Diligently, read and study the Bible and pray. That will be a great focus for the new year.
We also need to put a priority on the people in our lives who will cry over our graves. How often we exhaust our emotional energy before we get home. Yes, everyone is important and we need to reach out to the least of these too. But, let’s be sure not to neglect those who are in our priority circle.
I pray each one of us will focus on our life in God, our family, our life’s work, and purpose. There are too many superficial things that rob the true focus of our lives.
The world is screaming for our attention. When we get still and quiet, we can hear the still, small voice of God calling us to His priority. God’s priority needs to be our priority.
Romans 12:2 (NKJV) is a wonderful scripture. Listen to these words. “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what isthat good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
“Lord, help me to have the right focus on the important things of life. You, my family, friends, and Your calling are the most important. Holy Spirit, empower me to be diligent in the important things. Help me to reduce the superficial things of life. Lord, transform me by renewing my mind. Jesus, give me a heart and a mind like Yours, so that I can fulfill Your purpose through me.
Yours on the Journey,
Harry Whitt
Pathway Journey 