Self-control applies to so many areas in my life that can get out of control: housekeeping, disciplining my children, spending money, controlling my tongue, on-line time..... the list goes on and on! Each month I am focusing on one area I can exhibit more self-control. In January, it has been housekeeping. (You can read about my progress on my ministry blog this week.) February I'm working on the spiritual discipline of prayer. In March, it's money management.
Each month I'll read a book about my self-control focus area, commit to prayer and change in that area, and actually do the work it takes to make progress! Nancy Twigg writes in her book From Clutter to Clarity
, "...spiritual growth is 20 percent feeling and 80 percent doing" (104). Self-control starts with feelings, but exhibits itself in actions. And usually it's little actions and decisions that show evidence of self-control. Choosing to fold the load of laundry instead of watching something on TV. Stopping just short of saying something about someone you wouldn't say to her face. Making an extra payment on the credit card instead of another charge.Each week I get out my notebook and favorite pen and write down my baby steps and big leaps toward the resolutions I have set for myself (and my family and ministry). If a goal doesn't get met one week, it goes on to the next week, at the top. When I think it will help, I share my goals with others, my husband or friends who can help keep me motivated and accountable.
I'm praying my one word resolution will produce much fruit in the new year!
I will definitely check out your ministry blog to find out more about where you're focusing each month. Self-control is a great resolution because it brings it all back right where it needs to be...in my hands. I think I'm stealing this one from you, friend!! All of my resolutions can be summed up by those two words, so thanks for pulling it all together for me once again. :)
ReplyDeleteI love the idea of reading a book of your monthly focus area...for me, that would be two resolutions with one proverbial stone..I have resolved to read more and waste less brain time on meaningless/brainless tasks. Thank you for the idea, and I am inspired by sumarizing your resolutions into one title...then breaking them down into managable, attainable tasks.
ReplyDeleteThat IS a good idea to read a book for that focus area each month. If I had to choose one word this year, I think I would have to say "resources." Giving prayer and thought to what my resources are, how I use them, and if they are being fruitful ... at home and in the world.
ReplyDeleteThat is such a brilliant idea. I have read about that book several places so I am going to add this one to my reading list. Thank you for the idea and for stopping by today!!
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