Earth Is Heaven's Bootcampਨਮੂਨਾ

Learn To Pace Yourself

Every New Year’s Eve, thousands of people around the world make new goals, which we call resolutions. Many resolutions involve becoming more physically fit and healthy. So diet is on their list.

People tend to start strong, but unfortunately, they often set unreasonable goals because they don’t pace themselves effectively. They try to do it all at once, and before they realize it, they feel defeated.

“I have observed something else under the sun. The fastest runner doesn’t always win the race, and the strongest warrior doesn’t always win the battle. The wise sometimes go hungry, and the skillful are not necessarily wealthy. And those who are educated don’t always lead successful lives. It is all decided by chance, by being in the right place at the right time.” Ecclesiastes 9:11 NLT

We live in an "immediate, instant, want it now" culture. Victorious people don’t try to rush through their days; instead, they go slow, savor the moments, enjoy the ride, so to speak. We have all heard the adage, “Take time to smell the roses!” How true this is. We miss much of life that was meant for our enjoyment, because we have busied ourselves with things.

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1 NKJV

I write down the things I want to accomplish daily, and cross them off as I accomplish them. Proverbs 16:9 (NKJV) gives us great wisdom: “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” It is fine to have plans and lists, as they not only give us goals but also accountability; however, may we always remember to include the One in our plans who makes it all happen!

One of the most critical aspects of boot camp is learning to pace ourselves. Ask yourself a few questions:

· When was the last time I smelled a rose?

· When was the last time I helped out a friend?

· When was the last time I called a loved one and had a conversation that went beyond a surface-level exchange?

· When was the last time I stopped to help that stranger along the way?

· When was the last time our family sat together at the dinner table?

“But he who endures to the end shall be saved.” Matthew 24:13 NKJV

Prayer: Lord, it is true that when we pace ourselves, we don’t burn out quickly. We gain momentum as we get closer to the finish line! Thank you for this truth. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.