Little Steps and Big Goals

Do you know how how many steps it takes to get to the big goal? A lot. In fact, if you stop to think about it for too long, it might discourage you. But, that might be because your big goal is taking center stage.

I am all about having a goal and going after it, but I think it is really important to consider what we do each day towards that goal. The little steps add up and they matter.

But why?

They establish a habit and a habit establishes a rhythm.

And with a rhythm there is momentum. I find that even if I skip a beat, the overall movement is there and easy to step back into it.

I like a big chunk of focused time for projects and there is definitely a time for that approach. But I have come to understand that my daily habits set my path more than I realized.

Are your little steps — or daily habits — nurturing your physical health or taking away from it?

Are they building up your relationships or tearing them down?

Are they deepening your connection with God or taking away from it?

Instead of being overwhelmed by a big goal and how you might not be achieving it, think about one step you can take today towards that goal today.

If you head that direction step-by-step, you will eventually find you are there! Don’t dismiss those “little” steps!

Lord, help me to be mindful of my little steps and where they are pointing my feet for this journey. Guide me as I decide my path. And when I stumble, because I surely will, steady me in your Word and way!

Employment

Do you know someone unemployed, underemployed, or stuck in a difficult or dangerous job? Please consider lifting them and their families up in prayer today.

It is easy to see how discouraging and despairing it is for someone struggling to find employment. Frequent rejection is frustrating and disheartening. Sometimes the family struggles with a vicious cycle of shame and blame regarding the job situation. While job hunting can provide a good opportunity to evaluate priorities, skill sets, living arrangements it also can take its toll on a family and esteem. Specifically praying for families struggling with employment issues is a great way to connect with another’s need. You can take it a step further by sending them a note to let them know you are praying for them, ask them if there are specific needs you can pray for on their behalf, surprise them with a gift card for a grocery store, or invite them over for dinner and games.

Heavenly Father, there are so many people who are willing to work but many companies are cutting back and jobs are not so easy to find. Please give them eyes to see the next step for them and their family. And provide encouragers along the way. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Frustration

The are so many things to be frustrated about–the economy, crime, gas prices, family relationships, the health care bill. The list could go on and on. Do you have something that has been really bugging you?

What do you do when you are frustrated?

Seek answers?
Work harder?
Threaten?
Go for a run?
Name calling?
Count to 10?
Speak first and think later?
Pound a pillow?
Flee?
Punch a wall?
Cry?
Swear?
Have a drink?
Pray?
Avoid?
Cry out to God?

Sometimes our responses are on auto-pilot; we don’t even think, we just respond. Consider how you respond when you are defeated, discouraged, or disappointed. Ask God to show you ways that are productive and not destructive.

Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress, and he hears my voice. Psalm 55:17 NIV

If you find yourself in some bad habits as you respond to frustration, ask God to help you change your behavior. Here’s a sobering thought: The people in your life take note of how you respond to disappointment and frustration.