How To Keep Stepping Forward
written by Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:19”
The Christian faith is most often a lifetime process, rather than giving oneself to Christ moments before one’s death. God’s grace and mercy provide for all, but living a spiritual life is most often learned and expressed in daily disciplines. Like most aspects of life, fulfillment comes from a million little steps, with you moving forward. Praying when we feel like it, worshiping when we have nothing else to do, and caring when it makes us feel better will not motivate us to keep stepping up.
Making positive, lasting change only happens when we sit down and determine what matters most to us. Once written down, on paper or screen, and our hearts, we will be able to take the next steps in the necessary direction. When we affirm our direction, the steps become second nature, and motivation becomes secondary.
Prepare your values and desires. Family, work, and faith are on most lists. Your list of values and the order of importance will change at different points in your life. For instance, if work is less essential, your hobbies could fill the void in your values. Other values might take precedence over work. Do not forget to add something that brings you joy. If nothing brings you joy, continuing to step up becomes little more than drudgery. Reflecting on your joy also reaffirms family, faith, and perhaps work, which can help you appreciate the joy they bring you.
The process of reflection and action steps is a spiritual process because it reminds us of what we value. If faith is on your list, but is not receiving your time and attention, it is helpful to ask yourself, “why.” Are your answers legitimate in your mind? The process is not about guilt but about motivating you to keep stepping forward with life. Life feels painfully difficult when our values do not align with our time management. When you reflect, plan, and accept your time management decisions, life and faith are affirmed within your heart. You become open to future transitions when changes take place. The Holy Spirit will supply support, so your decisions feel affirming and in line with your faith and values.
