Goal Monster

In my own world around this time of year I begin looking at the coming year and what needs to be accomplished. I just turned 34 the other day and in all honesty, was a little down. I know you’re supposed to be up on your birthday and all, but I wasn’t. I was looking at the glass half-empty. Looking at my age and wishing I was further along in my journey then I am right now. I call this my annual “goal monster” that likes to come scream at me. This funk stayed with me for a few days.

Just today I was visiting with a friend of mine who has been able to observe me over the last year. And what she told me was very encouraging. “Thanks Ms. Rita.” She told me that when she looked at how I was a year ago vs. now it’s like talking to two different people. I’d grown she said. Sometimes it takes someone else’s perspective to see our lives a little differently then we see them ourselves.

When we look at the goals of the coming year, it’s also of extreme importance to look at the triumphs and victories we’ve had of the year we are living. No matter how small they may seem, most of us can find these little victories. These are to be celebrated! We are all works in progress no doubt, filled with more potential to be realized. We just have to remember that the beauty is in the journey and not get so down on ourselves. Or perhaps I just have to say that to me.

One of the greatest aspects of God’s grace is that it’s free. He always looks at us as his friends. I love in the New Testament how he wanted to be known as “Abba” or “Daddy.” Painting us a picture of a loving Dad who always is in love with his kids right where they are. The beauty of Grace is that it is a finished work, and a free gift for us to receive. Finished work!!! Let that sink in. We never have to do anything else but learn to rest more and more in his grace. His grace gives us the ability to live the great life he dreamed for us before we were ever in our mother’s womb. So, when we are feeling anxious, down, fearful, afraid of the future, worried, and so on, we are going against the grace that God has given us. He says; “Cast all your cares on him for he cares for you.”

You are loved! You are amazing! You are beautiful! Because God loved you (and I) enough to send his son to pay a final price for our freedom. So receive his love and have an amazing day!

Kameron Lombard © 2011