I stumbled upon some thought-provoking questions by Kathleen Hart while reading a book from my sister, and spent some time letting them marinate before writing down my answers in my daily journal.
In the busy rush of life it can be hard to remember what you’re living for, especially for us women being pulled in a thousand different directions. Work, school, relationships, family. These things can bring us just as much stress as they can bring us joy, leaving our souls feeling depleted even when we know God is on our side. Find some peace in the middle of this crazy week by looking outward from yourself and upward to God, remembering how much you are loved and how equipped you are to do something great.
Take some time to think about these questions and answer them for yourself. I have included a bit more depth about each of them as well as some suggested accompanying verses from Hart!
Am I experiencing God’s love at this stage of my life?
It’s easy to know God loves you, but harder to feel his love. How have you felt his love today? This week? If you feel beat by something you are dealing with, turn to someone in your church or your faith community for support. No shame!
{Ephesians 3:18-19}
How am I loving God?
Are your words and actions reflective of God’s teachings, or are they hurtful and negative? This is something I struggle with greatly -- my negativity has become a crutch which is something I’ve been working on. 2016 goals: let every word that escapes my lips be reflective of the love God has for me and positive for others.
{Luke 10:27-28}
What is my purpose for living?
During every time of your life, ask God what he needs you to do. If you never spend any quiet time with him, how will you ever understand what direction he is pointing you in? Investigate what brings you joy. By using that activity to glorify the Lord, you are fulfilling your purpose. Our purpose can shift at different times in our life, depending on how God needs us to be of service to him, so flexibility is key.
{1 Corinthians 10:31}
Who is in my grandstand?
While it’s fine to lean on family or friends in a rough patch of your life, humans will fall short again and again when it comes to meeting your needs. God created a void in your heart that can only be filled with his love; set an intention to lead a life in which you desire affirmation from Jesus instead of other people.
{Corinthians 5:9}
Am I in control of my actions and attitudes?
Do you react to situations, or act in situations? Do you find yourself in control of your attitude or does it tend to control the way you think? Respond to undesirable or trying situations with a deep breath and an open heart.
{Luke 6:27}
What lasting impression am I leaving?
The most important thing to think about when asking yourself about the impression you’re leaving is this: How do others FEEL after spending time with you? I want people to feel encouraged, loved and understood, after opening up to me, like they have someone they can trust and someone who supports their every move. Are you creating that impression on others?
{2 Corinthians 3:18}
I hope these questions leave you feeling renewed and refocused, in good health and feeling worthy of all the happiness you deserve! Cheers to a new year of new chances, new opportunities and new beginnings.