While taming the wild beast last night, the words drifted through my head. When choosing my wants over hers, the words fluttered in my heart. Wishing for what seemed important, the words seeped into the actions of something with greater importance.
In our Sunday morning class, we watched an inspiring message by Andy Stanley called This One Thing. Nehemiah was on mission to fulfill the task of leading God's people to rebuild the wall around Jerusalem. At one point, the "bad guys" tried to distract him from the task. Ever feel distracted? (ummm, yeah, me too!) Rather than giving in, Nehemiah told them, "I am doing a great work and I cannot come down." He refused to come off the wall until it was completed. He refused to choose something less than the mission at hand.
Living in a world of tizzy isn't my thing though it's often my habit. 2012 was more intentional. I grew, accomplished, and let go when needed. Not perfectly, but better. After hearing Andy's encouragement yesterday, I see this "focused to my mission" mantra becoming my 2013 challenge. Being careful to shake off what's hindering and shut down what's distracting and to remain diligent to the God-given purpose each of us has. It'll prolly take a little lot of supernatural doing, but I'm down with that! [ View/listen to Andy's encouragement. ]
[ I don't know about you, but I need visual reminders. I created the simple wall graphic above for you in 4x6 size and unwatermarked. Save to your computer and print off if you think it'd help! ]
How about you, what are some 2013 challenges you're going after?