Spring Training

    It has been two weeks since my last post, so here I go again.  As usual I have had lots of distractions and haven't stuck to my priorities.  Can you relate?  We always have an excuse- as I have heard defined as "a lie wrapped in a reason"!  Thank goodness that His mercies are new every morning, and the morning comes like clockwork!
     We all need self discipline.  Paul said in 1 Cor. 9:24-27 "Run in such a way as to get the prize.  Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.  Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air.  No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others , I myself will not be disqualified for the prize."  I am not saying that everything is a speed race, but we definitely need to have goals!  I am definitely preaching to myself as well, here.  And I want to be more productive in several areas (but let's just start with a few for now!).
     When you start training you don't attempt the full race the first time around.  Stretching is vital!  Strengthening and endurance are built.  You increase your laps and learn to pace your self.  Slow and steady wins the race, right?
     1) Let's become consistent in daily listening to God (keep that appointment with your trainer and hear what He has to say).  "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you."  Isaiah 26:3  We need to discipline our minds first!  When you are trusting in God you have perfect peace.  Shut down that negative thinking and ask God for a new way to see things.  He is always faithful!
     2)Set some goals.  I think that this is two fold. "And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:1-2  When we have something clearly marked out we can follow it more easily (and more quickly!) and look ahead, rather than worrying about each step.  Our goals also need to be something that we find joy in, or bring joy (clean house, anyone?).  We are to delight ourselves in the Lord, and He created us with skills and desires for certain things!  Every step may not be a joy filled one, but the goal should be something that you find fulfilling.
     Anyone want to hear about my goals and desires?  Maybe I will journal that for awhile- my leading by example!  "Everyone ends up somewhere, but few people end up somewhere on purpose."  I want to be a motivator and encourager!  Feel free to post some of your goals on here and I will pester you about them. ; )