Well, here we are—2016!

Amazing.

Nutrisystem and Weight Watchers are counting their stacks of cash, gym memberships are soaring, and good intentions are as plentiful as good ‘ole southern biscuits (which, by the way, wreak havoc on the good intentions).

This is the time of year that most of us take a moment to look back and assess the previous 365 days and attempt to set goals for the days ahead. Mine typically go something like this:

Lose a few pounds?

Pump up my exercise routine?

Um…start exercising?

Pick up a book once in a while?

Save some money?

Develop a hobby?

Work harder?

Spend more time with family?

Lose a few pounds? (I’m aware of the repeat. Sigh.)

But recently, my sweetheart and I met people that put resolutions and goal-setting into perspective.

Situation #1

I’m standing in an office-supply store searching for my favorite writing pen (my brain tends to go on lock-down with too many options).

To my relief, I hear the friendly voice of a store employee: “Oh, I love your handbag! Where did you get it?”

After supplying the information, I add, “And I’m looking for a certain pen. Could you help me?”

You’ll think I’m making up this next part. Seriously. You will.

She smiles and says, “Oh, I’m sorry. I’m off the clock.”

And then she walks away leaving behind a stunned and frustrated shopper.

Situation #2

My sweet husband and several others are sharing a hospital elevator with a maintenance worker. The worker’s appearance shows the busyness of his day. They exchange smiles and my husband asks, “Are you having a good day?”

This man lights up and says, “It’s a great day. Doin’ the Lord’s work. Yes sir, I’m doin’ the Lord’s work.”

He steps off the elevator at the next stop, leaving behind smiles and lighter burdens.

Talk about cutting to the chase.

Maybe our New Year’s evaluations shouldn’t be about what we want to accomplish, as much as about who we want to be. 

What kind of attitude are we portraying to the world around us? Does it shout, I’m off the clock, or does it give the fragrance of I’m doin’ the Lord’s work?

Check out Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV)…

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

And this one in 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV)…

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

If we’re living and breathing these verses, it tends to cover any goal-setting lists we make.

Are diet and exercise on our lists? Do it all for the glory of God.

Need to be a better steward of our resources? Do it all for the glory of God.

Need to work more? Less? Do it all for the glory of God.

 

So, here’s to a new year and new opportunities.

Here’s to doin’ the Lord’s work.

And here’s to remembering—it’s all about that ‘tude.

 

How are you approaching your new set of 365 days?

 

Thank you for being a part of Heart Undivided. Let’s pray for each other as we continue this journey. Feel free to comment and to share what you’d like to talk about in the coming year. I love growing and learning together!

2016—here we come! 🙂

Much love,

Leigh Ann