To say it's been a while since I've written anything would be the understatement of the year. I'm not sure what has kept me for so long except when you go a long time without writing anything but a lot of life happens in the meantime, knowing where to start can be difficult. Attempting to catch up would be completely futile.
Every year at the start of the year I sit down and make my resolutions. Usually, I make them so lofty and so numerous that they can't all realistically be accomplished in a year. But that doesn't stop me. (Is this familiar to anyone else?) So, I went to Starbucks and sat for about 4 hours with a guide from my boss (to help me keep my head out of the clouds). I had already been praying and asking God what one character quality I would like to see developed in my life this year and how I should spend my time and energy. It was time to make it a little more formal.
Istarted writing down goals in every area of my life - spiritual, physical, intellectual, recreational, financial... and alas, there was a common thread woven through all of it. Discipline. The dreaded word. And yet, by the grace of God a powerful force. It was clear that discipline is the character quality needing development in my life and yet, I was still hoping to think of a great reason why compassion or hospitality would be better.
Like any other excited goal setter, I have started off strong. I joined a gym and have been waking up nice and early to go. These early mornings are a beautiful thing because it affords me some extra time in the word every morning. I have also found myself attempting to get a good amount of sleep (mostly in response to those early mornings). I set up a savings account and upped my 401k deduction. And it's official. I'm boring.
But here's the thing - if discipline were just for discipline's sake it really would be boring. There are many motivations that may or may not sustain me, but glorifying Christ is the kind of motivation that will persevere. The whole essence of discipline is that it is taking you somewhere. And the destination is rarely found quickly. -What is that book called? A Long Obedience in the Same Direction. (*note to self - pick up copy of Peterson's book)- Long story short, I am praying for the grace of God to develop discipline in my life.
Who knows, maybe I'll even become more consistent in writing.
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