Have you ever asked yourself “What is important in life?” I’m not sure many people do. Let’s face it, life is busy. Life is chaotic. Life is exhausting. All of our “to do” lists are completely unrealistic and ridiculous. But that’s just life, right?
Um….I’m going to be that little voice that shouts – “NO!”
That can be everybody else’s life, but it’s not going to be mine. Uh,uh, no way! (arms crossed, shaking my head). I want to live my life on purpose. I want to know what is important in life and go after it!
I can hear you now, just like I’ve heard my clients countless times – “But how do you KNOW?”
Well first off, my dear, let go of the notion that you have to do it perfectly! You’re not perfect, so accept that and then it’s easier to move on. The good news is – none of us are! I like to say, we’re all perfect in our imperfections! :)
The exact answers to “What is important in life?” is going to be different for each of us and will change depending on the stage of life you’re in.
If you’re a student, school will be pretty darn important.
If you’re a newlywed, that marriage will be of utmost priority
If you’re a new mama, that precious little baby will be everything
If you work outside the home, your career is very important
So how do you clear through the clutter and sort out the priorities? It’s really pretty simple, actually. Let me help you out.
“But put God’s kingdom first. Do what he wants you to do. Then all of those things will also be given to you.” Matthew 6:33
Now, I know the next logical question is “What does He want us to do?” Well, that one’s even simpler!
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” Matthew 22:37
“Love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22:39
Stay with me here… When you’re asking yourself “What is important in life?” The above verses are your filters to sort through. When options come your way, ask:
Does this activity honor God? I’m not going to get into a huge theological debate here as to what that means. What I will tell you is that if you are a Christian, you have the Holy Spirit to guide you and correct you if you get off course. If not, then a good place to start would be to ask, “Am I being ethical?” “Am I being moral?” “Am I proud of the things I’m doing?”
Another point to consider is that you were uniquely created to do certain things. You’ve been blessed with gifts and talents to be used. Are you using them or squandering them? Are you actively involved with life or going through the motions? Are you taking care of your mind & body so that you’re in good shape to do the work you’re here to do?
Does this activity show love to others? That one’s a little less confusing. Are your actions building up others or tearing them down. Are your motivations to serve and help or are they selfish? Pay attention to others’ reactions to you and what you do. This will give you a good indication of whether they feel loved or not.
Life is grey. We have to accept that. But when we’re trying to sort out what is important in life, having some guidelines to use are always helpful. I find the hardest part is slowing down long enough to even take the time to consider these questions. Hmmm…Sounds like a great topic for another blog post!
Until next time…Feel free to share how you make decisions as to what is important in life for you.
Feel guilty about not being the wife/mom you want to be? Tired of saying “yes” to things you don’t want to do? Know there’s got to be more to life, but can’t find it?Visit www.VibrantlyLive.com for more great info to help you vibrantly live rather than just go through the motions.
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