HE GUIDES MY STEPS

Each year, I do an exercise that helps me focus my attention and declutter my life.  It is based on 4 questions:

WHAT AM I CALLED TO DO? 

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

WHAT DO I WANT TO DO? 

WHAT AM I DOING TO PLEASE SOMEONE ELSE?

As I reflect on these questions, I am reminded of some Proverbs:

WHAT AM I CALLED TO DO?

Surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off. Hear, my son, and be wise, and direct your heart in the way. My son, give me your heart, and let your eyes observe my ways. Proverbs 23:18-19, 26

A Calling comes from God, with Him telling me what my purpose is.  What is your calling?  What activities are you doing that fulfills your calling?

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice; He who fathers a wise son will be glad in him. Let your father and mother be glad; let her who bore you rejoice.  Proverbs 23:24-25

A Need usually comes from relationships with family or close friends.  I need to be a good husband, father and friend.  What do you do keep these relationships healthy?

WHAT DO I WANT TO DO?

Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor. Proverbs 22:9

A Want can be an internal desire, but it must be fulfilling.  A bountiful eye isn’t one of greed, but a desire that unleashes abundant joy in your life.  What brings you joy that was not listed in the first two answers?

WHAT AM I DOING TO PLEASE SOMEONE ELSE?

Who has woe?  Who has sorrow?  Who has strife?  Who has complaining?  Proverbs 23:29

I realize there are some things I do that are not in my calling, that I don’t need to do, and that I don’t want to do.  They yield frustration, and sometimes sorrow and strife.  What are you doing that fits this category?

Lord, I pray for each one of your children and that You would bless their lives with the answers to these questions.  May You use Your Word and Your Light to illuminate their lives.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.