Committed Action

Hello, Friends!

Today I want to share with you my One Little Word for 2022 which this year actually happens to be two words. Committed Action.

But before I do that, let’s talk about YOU! How are things in your part of the world? I would LOVE for you to share with me a book I should read, a show/movie I should watch, a recipe you are loving, a funny story, or a prayer request. Truly, I want to KNOW you better, dear reader.

Now onto COMMITTED ACTION.

One Little Word

I love choosing a word to help serve as a guide for the year and have been doing it for many years now. When I first started, I jumped on the word train because other bloggers I followed were doing it. My haphazard this-is-fun original purpose has developed into something much deeper. God has used these little words to teach me and grow me and in my transformation.

Now, I have to admit that I feel a bit squirmy thinking of  the word “transformation” and me in the same sentence. It seems kind of prideful.

But, friends, that is a dumb way to think of it. God WANTS to transform us, sanctify us. It is His goal for us. Not acknowledging that HE IS DOING IT is HUMBLE PRIDE.

Sidebar: I was a tiny bit sick when I first learned about humble pride. You know, putting yourself down, thinking poorly of yourself, always thinking other people can do “it” better. Speaking negatively of one’s self doesn’t seem prideful at first glance, but it is. It’s pride, too, because it puts all the focus back on ME. Pride is an insidious, ugly, devastating sin.

Blech.

Think pride isn’t a problem for you? Hmmm. Here is an interesting article about it from the C.S. Lewis Institute. Pride and Humility

I’m glad HE is remaking me from the inside out because, for goodness sake, I need it. I need a SAVIOR every second of every day, and I have ONE.

Praise God!

More Than I Bargained For

Committed Action may be even more than I bargained for though. I chose it because I have some serious goals that I say I want to achieve, but I keep sabotaging myself with buffers when the going gets the least bit tough. And, of course, it does get tough-often.

Buffers like: too much sugar, doing good things but not THE thing, too much scrolling social media, learning but not applying, avoiding hard things, sitting in overwhelm instead of just getting on with it.

Basically: resistance, resistance, resistance.

Anyone else? That is our brain trying to protect us from failure, but failing and starting over, and failing and starting over again and again is how we learn, grow and change.

Take a seat, negative thoughts, I have work to do.

I decided to google Committed Action and learned it is much more than I realized.

Committed Action is a step by step process of acting to create a life of integrity true to one’s deepest wishes and longings-the ability to link one’s actions to one’s values in any situation.

Basically, it is walking the walk not just talking the talk.

Don’t you love that?  Are you convicted by it, too?

I tell myself that I want to live a life that brings glory to God and loves my neighbor. Instead, I spend a lot of time doing the easy thing, the reacting thing, the buffering thing.

Blech.

Obstacles

Since choosing these words and beginning to take action, circumstances and life and major obstacles are already showing up. But, I am determined to take committed action and face each one with my faith in Jesus and with my values in tact.

I find myself saying over and over this month (and it is only January 10th), “Jesus, take the wheel.” He is the perfect driver.

The obstacle is the way and will offer many lessons and opportunities. I will be committing  my plans to the Lord, praying for direction and applying lots of Highest Potential, my YL essential oil of the year.

Father, would you please guard our hearts and minds? Would you give us your protection, strength and courage? We long to please you and glorify you and love our neighbor as you instructed. We love you and depend on your goodness and grace. 

What is your One Little Word? Are you taking committed action? Do your actions match up with your stated values? How do you boss your brain around?

Much love,

Susan

P.S. You can read another OLW posts:  gather