Sometimes We Just Need to Focus ~ Part I

Have you ever let life and the lists take over? Has the list ever taken precedent over the important things in life? You know, like spending time with your spouse, children, parents, family, friends, neighbors, or someone in need of a friend? Personally, I can say yes. If you are honest, there has probably been a time in your life when you can relate, right? If not, please share in a comment below to encourage and help the rest of us because those who never lose focus have a gift and wisdom to impart on those of us struggling.

I know it's possible because I can think of a couple woman mentors in my life that appear to have their focus where it is supposed to be, 24/7. But then I think, there are some that believe I have it all together. Appearances aren't all they are cracked up to be. I'm not a mess or falling apart yet my focus gets off track and distracted like all of you. The past fourteen months have been crazy busy and full of blessings yet hidden behind and in front of the blessings are obstacles, challenges, and hurdles. Some of which were self-inflicted (unintentionally) and others come with the territory of writing and speaking for God, and Heidi.

An area I want to focus on today is our need and benefit from daily time with God. I am ashamed to admit this time slowly worked its way out of my routine. Do I pray throughout the day? Yes. Do I thank, praise, and look to God during the day as different things enter my life and the lives of those around me? 

Yes. BUT, setting aside time each and every day to spend time with God, like I do a friend has slipped from the routine. Part of this struggle came from my lack of sleep and late nights, making it difficult to get up in the morning. I like to start my day with God. 

We must never stop looking to Jesus. He is the leader of our faith, 
and he is the one who makes our faith complete. He suffered death on a cross. 
But he accepted the shame of the cross as if it were nothing 
because of the joy he could see waiting for him. 
And now he is sitting at the right side of God’s throne.
Hebrews 12:2 ERV

My first lesson learned, although I prefer the morning, sometimes God opens a window of quiet time in the afternoon or evening. I seize the moments when they come, letting go of MY preference and taking advantage of the quiet moments when He opens a door. This helps to bring life into focus.

I learned somewhere, to form a new habit, it takes twenty-one days. So, with a desire to serve God and stay connected and keep life in focus...I'm on a 21 day challenge, no goal. Daily time with God should be a natural, easy, and enjoyable habit we have. This challenge should be easy, right? Since my desire to return this regimen to my routine is there, right? I'm on Day 4/Day 1. Why the slash you wonder? Because I've already missed a day, letting the busyness of life and laziness of summer heat take precedent. 

HOPE...HABIT...HEALTHY LIFE

I have a choice, beat myself up for failing on day three, or start again with more drive, determination, and "focus" than the first day one. It doesn't matter how many day ones I might face this summer, by September 1st, there will be no need to write the days because this necessary, uplifting, and important part of my day will be a habit once again.

Do you have a healthy habit of daily time with God?
If not, want to join me on this summer challenge?