Be Intentional

To be deliberate with or consciously aware of your thoughts, words, and actions is vitally important for our spiritual walk with the Lord. When we are aware of them, we are given the ability and opportunity to change them, in order to become more Christ like. By being intentional every minute of the day allows us to stay in the present moment. The present moment is what I call the gift of fresh eyes. It also prevents us from dwelling on the past or negative situations (which is where the devil wants to keep you).

Romans 12:2

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will.

My personal journey:

Last month I wrote down a prayer for myself where I asked God to help me become more consistent and intentional with my pursuit of an intimate relationship with Him on a daily basis. I don't know about you, but excuses and distractions tend to get in the way of my relationship with God at times. And what God has placed on my heart since than is for me to "be intentional." And let me tell you, He has been faithful in walking right beside me on this journey, guiding me in my thoughts, words, and actions.

Now, don't get me wrong, this doesn't mean that I've been doing everything right because I haven't. But it does mean that when I have followed what God puts on my heart I feel a sense of peace and joy about it, and when I haven't done my best, God stops me instantly & asks me if I did my best in that situation. Trust me when I say His conviction is very clear to me.

Some people may think I am being too hard on myself, but this journey is different, this is about God's conviction to do better and be better, it's not shame & guilt as the devil would want me to feel. It's literally God pointing out when I need to keep quiet and when I need to think differently or act differently. Needless to say, I've had several thoughts of "WELL, I bet God is going to give me that lesson again so I can hopefully get it right the next time." :) lol How many of you have thought this way?

James 1: 25

But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it - he will be blessed in what he does.

Can I tell you that I am grateful for God's convictions? Because each one directs my steps. I know I can never be perfect because only Jesus was able to do that, but I do know God has showered me with His grace and mercy when I have fallen short. He's also reminded me of when I need to offer that same grace and mercy to others as well.

Friends, I want to encourage you to pursue a personal relationship with God, because He is eager to have that relationship with us. Transforming our hearts and minds is not an easy process, but it is necessary. God is calling all of us to a higher standard of living.

Colossians 4:2, 5-6 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

Written by: Jill Theriault

Crossroads Coaching - @crossroadscoachingongodstime