Colossians 3:2
(if we want direction when it comes to what we should say yes to, and what we say no to, this verse will help)
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
Colossians 1:29
(we have work to do, and we need to set goals but it’s only through Christ’s power that we can do anything)
“I work very hard at this as I depend on Christ’s power that lives within me."
Song:
Action:
First, take a moment to consider some of these questions:
- Time is one of our most treasured resources, yet we rarely take time to think about the way we spend it. We often say “yes” to something only because we were asked to do it. It’s important that we guard our time and only participate in activities that we feel God is calling us to do. If you struggle to find time to exercise, prepare healthy meals, and spend time with God then you need to create margin in your calendar. Write out where you are spending your 24 hours each day.
- Are there things you know you should take out right away? Are there things you can create an exit strategy for? Of course, there are things we’d like to get rid of but we have to do so think of the optional activities that you can actually remove (TV, social media, room mom, clubs….)
Hopefully, you found some things you can remove from your calendar so that you have time to do the things you truly value.
- Grab a piece of paper and write down the things in your life that you absolutely want to bring into your new home (exercise, quality time with kids, family meals, date night with spouse, Bible study….) People often say to me, “I don’t have time to exercise” but here is what they are really saying, “I don’t value exercise”. We make time to do the things we value so make sure you make time for what you value.
- Write down three goals. Make them Action Goals, don’t make them about results. For example, don’t write down what you want (I want to lose 10 lbs or I want to grow closer to God), write down what you will do (I will exercise 4 times a week for at least 20 min. or I will read my Bible 3 mornings a week) Then make a schedule for the upcoming week and write down when you will be doing these things. Put them into your calendar and don’t cancel them. Set an alarm, ask a friend to hold you accountable – do whatever will help you to reach your goals.
Remind yourself of your “why”. Why do I value these things? Why are they important to me? On this same sheet of paper write down why you are motivated to make these changes. Our “why” is so important if we want to stay committed for the long haul. Hang your motives and goals up someplace where you will see them often.
I hope that you are feeling motivated and inspired after this exercise! I will be praying for you and the way that God is working in your life.
