As the year starts and I am thinking about goals I am trying to focus and not be scattered. I’ve been quieter seeking God’s direction. I felt I strived a great deal in 2011 and while God still met me I often wondered what He really wanted. There is such a fine balance between walking in faith and walking in what I want. Yet when I am doing what He has called me to do I thrive.
I looked up striving and it is defined as exerting much effort and energy; contend, struggle forcefully. I certainly felt that way a few times trying to stay where I shouldn’t or pursue something that maybe seemed like it was God’s plan but then changed. There were several times I had to stop and push out all the well meaning voices and listen to the voice within.
Thriving means grow, flourish and steady progress. I like those words better, don’t you?
Do you ever think about motives and intentions? What is the underlying motives driving you? Sometimes it is pure desire and passion for something, other times we hide ulterior motives. If I do ________, I will feel ________. We do things for validation, for value, for recognition. Or maybe that’s just me.
I also hide from things because I don’t feel like being the poster girl for post abortion or being honest about the struggles of being single at my age. I find the need to be happy and ok with it because I don’t want your pity. Lately I have sensed this quiet whisper that says maybe someone else feels the same way, maybe there are others struggling in these areas. The web is full of mommy bloggers and food bloggers but the single voice is not so easily found. So I am praying and seeing where God leads. I am trying to be fearless again and share from my heart.
Today be bold and take time to sit and ponder. Are you doing what God called you to or are you striving for something that in the end will not give you what you need?
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
This really resonates with me. Though I feel like last year for me was spent going back and forth between striving and surviving. And I’ve decided I’m tired of mere survival and want to really LIVE.
Thank you for sharing this!
I’m a single girl also who has only blogged once about my struggles with my singleness because I don’t want to sound whiny and be labeled as such. It’s nice to know that I’m not the only one.
Jennifer, Thank you – it is a struggle to find that balance. I agree I want to really LIVE in 2012!
Rebecca – glad to hear from you. I want to find a way to share but not whine! I have to believe there are others out there feeling the same way. Thanks for sharing