I don’t like driving behind big trucks or really any vehicle that is bigger than mine! I don’t have a complex, I just like to be able to see what’s up ahead, what’s coming my way, and where I’m going.
Most of the time I just want to know the big picture! If only the Lord would give me a download of the master plan, right?! Truth is, I just want to know if I’m going in the right direction and if I’m doing things right!
I usually take some time off between Christmas and the New Year. This time of year is perfect for spending some time reflecting on the past 365 days to see if “I’ve been doing it right,” and anticipating the next 365 days, so hopefully, I can go in the right direction!
Two healthy spiritual disciplines are looking back and “remembering” (Ps. 78, 105:5) the happenings of the previous year and spending time looking forward (Proverbs 4:25-27). There is a reason why the windshield is bigger than the rear view mirror…just sayin'!
To determine where we are going, we have to know where we are, and where we are is largely determined by where we’ve been! I encourage you to engage in this discipline this week and as you do, here are a few suggestions to help you:
1. “Remember” ‘the works of the Lord’ from the past 365 days.
Write down as many things as you can recall that God did in your life, lessons learned, challenges, and most importantly, blessings!
2. Set some “F.R.E.S.H.” goals.
Write down two or three “where I would like to be” goals in each of the following areas: Family, Relationships; Emotions; Spiritual life, and Health. These will help keep you FRESH as opposed to living tired, stressed, and by pressure vs. priority.
Truth is, most of us wish the Lord would just tell us what His plans are. I have found He doesn't usually work that way nor would it require faith or dependence from me. We are on a journey, and we get to walk with the Lord. He tells us in His Word that He has a plan for our lives, and He will be the one who brings it to pass. He is a good Father, and He knows where we are going! Along the journey, we just have to show wisdom and be good stewards of each day (Psalm 90:12). In so doing, we end up being right where He wants us!!