Good intentions don’t transform us. It’s the things that become habits that shape us.
When we look at Jesus, we find patterns and rhythms that enable us to become the people our Heavenly Father intended.
Too often it’s not that we forget that we are Christian, it’s that we forget we are human. That’s where spiritual disciplines help. As humans, we need habits God can use to enforce and reinforce His good intentions for life. Devote yourself to these exercises and look for God’s power.
Each week select a habit to put into practice that fits your goals toward personal growth and balance.
You will find the “bar” set high on some and lower on others.
Perhaps you need to be challenged in your OUT. Then select the OUT habit for that week. Or maybe you are great at OUT, being engaged with the world, and you are weak in your personal time with God. Then put more focus on the UP for this week. Or put all three UP, IN and OUT habits into practice this week. It’s really between you, whomever you chose to grow with, and God!
UP – Begin each day this week with this simple prayer, “Father in heaven, today give me eyes to see your heart, a mouth to bless and hands to serve.” During the day turn off your ipod/radio for the week and say “Speak Lord, for your servant is listening.” (1 Samuel 3:10)
IN – Serve your church community by volunteering in a significant way.
OUT – Tip your servers big this week and encourage each server you pay (from coffee baristas to supermarket checkers) with a deep sense of appreciation. With gratitude, let them know they are doing a great job. If you feel so bold, let them know God really likes them.
PAUSE: WE ARE ALMOST A MONTH INTO THIS ADVENTURE. ARE YOU LIVING 3D? WANT TO TELL SOMEONE WHAT DISCIPLESHIP IS? SIMPLY PUT, IT’S LIVING UP, IN AND OUT, FOLLOWING JESUS’ EXAMPLE.
Remember
UP, IN, AND OUT ARE RELATIONSHIPS
In the night, a sailor cannot see land, nor can he get his bearings from the coastline. He must navigate by trusting the dimly lit buoys already set in place. In the same way, when you go through dark seasons, you will be restricted by, or released to what has already been established within your soul. Wayne Cordeiro, Leading on Empty, 2009