"To Do" Or "To Be"?

If you are like me you started out the new year with a big huge "to do" list. Maybe you have several of them. I have at least two or three at work and that many at home as well. And let's not forget those cute little post-it notes that have a quick task on them as well, you know the ones you write in the dark as your driving on the way to work or in the middle of the night when you can't sleep.

Resolutions are life changes for some of us, a life "to do list" and like many some are successful and some fail. Have you ever considered when making your yearly resolutions, along with your "to do" list that you make a "to be" list? While I love to scratch things off of my to do list, I hesitate to write anything on a "to be" list. That's a litte more serious...daunting in fact. Cleaning the bathroom is a way easier task than becoming a more kinder gentler Janelle. Not to mention more quantifiable.

And let's be honest, if I made a list of all the things I want and need "to be"..... more disciplined, less petty, more thoughtful—I’d get depressed, rip up my list, and seek solace in a tub of Braum's Brownie Batter ice cream with chocolate syrup and pecans and a little whipped cream! (no cherry please)

So here's an idea ....what if......we focused on just one trait a week? That’s more doable, right?

I'm going to post a trait every week to put on my "to be" list Back it up with the only standard of truth, God's Word, and you can input your thoughts as well. We’ll grow and reflect together.

Here’s to new growth in the New Year. And the only thing you have to add to your to-do list is a reminder to visit or subscribe my blog often to see the next thing on your "to be" list.

To Be: Hopeful

hopeful: 1. having or manifesting hope. 2. Inspiring hope; promising.

“. . . but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)

No matter where you are with your resolutions, no matter what is going on with your life or in the world, look to each day as a new start. So how do you apply this to everyday life?

1. Write “hope” on a post-it note and put it in a place you see often: your bathroom mirror, near your computer screen, the front of your fridge.

2. Memorize Isaiah 40:31 above.

3. Every time you say something negative or hopeless this week, chase it with two positive, hopeful comments.

4. Make a list of the events coming up this year that give you hope. If you don’t have any, make some hope-inspiring plans pronto!

5. Make a list of the hope-stealers in your life. Take time to pray over that list, entrusting each item to God’s sovereign care. If needed, enlist a prayer partner for big things that are difficult to let go.

I hope this post inspires you to think about what should be on your "to be" list.