Questioning Your Doubts

Category: Purpose

  • You Matter

    You Matter

    As of January 2022, the current world population is 7.9 billion. You are one person. The current life expectancy in the United States for a baby born in the first half 2020 is 77.3 years. Does the life of one person out of nearly 8 billion matter? What of lasting value can be accomplished in a lifespan of less than one century? More specifically, does your life matter or will your life matter?

    Stroll through a graveyard and you will realize the following:

    The world was here before you arrived, and it will go on without you. This fact is true no matter how wealthy you are or how influential you have been in life. The birth and death dates on a gravestone attest to this truth.

    You matter to your friends and family. Although the world will go on without you, you are irreplaceable. You are genetically unique (unless, of course, you are an identical twin). Your life experiences and your choices based on those experiences are unique (true even for identical twins). What you have to offer the world in the dash between the date of your birth and the date of your death is unique. You are valuable not because you are the smartest person in the room, the fastest runner in the race, or the richest person in town. You are valuable just as you are – with your strengths and your limitations, your courage and your doubts, your triumphs and your mistakes.

    From a spiritual perspective, God loves you and values you. Read 1 John 4:7-12.

    What will do today to live out your purpose?

  • Thoughts for the New Year

    Thoughts for the New Year

    A new year brings new opportunities for achievements, for joy, for receiving blessings and bestowing blessings on others (Psalms 126). For many people, 2020 was a difficult year, and 2021 brings the promise of a better future.

    The sun sets on New Year’s Eve and rises on New Year’s Day, and one year turns into another, with the new day no different than the one before. However, the turning of the year on our calendars gives us the impetus to make changes, improvements, and new choices. Here are some suggestions:

    1. ESTABLISH routines/rituals that will incrementally move you in the direction of your goals. This principle works equal well in the areas of spirituality, health, and wealth. For example, in the areas of spirituality and health, establish a regular sleep schedule and set aside time each morning for prayer, exercise, and a calm start to your day. In the area of wealth, save and invest a portion of your income. Better to start with small, regular amounts than none at all.
    2. EDIT aspects of your life that detract from your well-being. Lovingly set boundaries with people who demean your dreams, work against your goals, and speak negatively about you to others.
    3. ELIMINATE sources of frustration when possible. Replace the error-prone software, fix broken equipment, organize your wardrobe, and create systems to support your daily activities.

    The specific changes and upgrades will vary with each individual, but the concepts are universal. Finally, while making improvements in the temporal realm, keep your eyes on what is eternal (Psalms 16:11).