NOT Just the Thought that Counts...

I am the queen of good intentions. Unfortunately, by default that makes me the queen of execution failure also. Let me explain what I mean.

I have many things that I often intend to do but fail to deliver. Some of the things I often intend to do but fail to carry out include:

- Leave home on time and not be late
- Resist a second helping of food
- Do all of my daily Bible reading
- Cook something special for my husband
- Go to bed on time
- Relax more and worry less
- Resist the temptation to speak negatively about someone

These are just a few examples. When I say I am going to do (or not do, depending on the scenario) these things but end up not completing them, I end up frustrated and discouraged at my failure to follow through, be disciplined and accomplish all that I set out to accomplish. Unfortunately, this can affect my mood, which sets off a downward spiral that results in a negative outlook and also affects those around me.

Two things could be the reason behind this phenomenon: either my standards are too high, or I’m simply being lazy/undisciplined. In my case, I think it is a little of both. I am often very tough on myself and have high expectations, but sometimes my disciplined nature is selective (Example: I somehow make time to find time to be on Facebook yet can’t seem to get to bed on time).

I also need to question whose standards I am using. Am I setting expectations and prioritizing my time based on God’s standards, or someone else’s? Proverbs 4:27 says, “Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.” It is impossible to walk forward in a straight line if you are not looking directly in front of you. If you are looking at something over your right shoulder, you will begin moving toward it. Similarly, if I am looking over at a friend to see how she or anyone other than Jesus, who is in front leading me, is doing something, I am going to get off track and begin moving in a direction other than toward Him. I think many of us spend too much time and energy comparing ourselves to others and trying to emulate someone else or do what the world is telling us instead of obediently walking forward, where God is leading us.

It’s also not healthy to set unrealistic goals, beat ourselves up or be lazy. The key is to listen to God and do as He says, resisting the temptation to compare ourselves to others, try to be perfect in a legalistic sense or be unproductive. Who’s thankful for His forgiveness and mercy? I certainly am. I'm also grateful that tomorrow is a new day and a fresh opportunity to listen and be obedient.