I decided that I really don’t like traditional New Year’s Resolutions for myself. It’s mostly because there’s not a huge expectation from anyone, including myself, to actually follow through. It’s never really surprising when I’ve completely forgotten what the resolution even was just a few months into the year.
This year, I decided to ask the Lord what he wanted me to focus on throughout the year. The pastor of my church is going through the Bible in a year, and he invited the church to join him. When I first heard about it, my initial thought was “Well I’m leaving in September, so there’s no point in doing that.”
What? How does that even make sense? Do I plan on not reading the Bible come September? Of course I do, so I decided to say yes to the invitation. Thankfully this was a quick turn around in thought pattern, but it did make me realize something else about how I had been thinking recently.
I realized that I have pushed aside a lot of things that I want or need to do because “I’m leaving anyway.” Starting new hobbies, making new friends, making plans, trying in school…I’ve put no effort into things like these because I didn’t see the point – I’m leaving anyway. Do you see a pattern here?
That’s why, when I asked the Lord what He wanted me to focus on, He gave me the words BE PRESENT. Instead of focusing on what’s coming next, I need to start focusing on being active in what is before me right now. Invest in the relationships I have, learn to sew, actually do my work for school, put the phone down in public and engage in real conversations, start the Bible in a year plan with the full intention of completing it, be excited about sharing what the Lord is doing through the World Race, etc.
These are all things the Lord has been convicting me of lately. I have failed one way or another in being present in these specific areas. Sometimes I just have no desire, sometimes I don’t see the point, sometimes I’m scared, and sometimes I use the “I’m leaving for a year anyway” excuse.
God helped me realize that this is not how He intended me to live. He gives moments and puts me in situations so I can learn and grow, but that can’t happen if I don’t fully invest in what He’s put before me. He’s blessed me with so many wonderful things and amazing opportunities, and He wants me to take full advantage of what He’s given.
I think God has big, big plans for this year, and I want to be present for every single moment. So here’s to 2015. Let’s make it the best year yet.
So far I’ve raised a total of $510 towards my total goal of $16,257. There’s still a long way to go, but I’m so thankful for those of you who have jumped right on board in supporting me. You mean so much!
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Thanks for all your support, I couldn’t do this without you!
