Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Just Not Yet

So, what happens when, despite your superb execution of EVERYTHING, results are nowhere to be had?  Say your goal is to lose weight.  You eat right, exercise like a maniac and nothing happens.  Or you are trying to improve a relationship.  You say and do all the right things, but they still find a way to bring out the worst in you.  Or, my favorite, you ask God for growth in your life and then the next day your husband gets laid off and does not find a job for another six months! What do you do when all the 'right' things aren't working?  This is one of the hardest questions to face head on.  If something is supposed to work a certain way, and it doesn't, what do you do then?

My answer, unfortunately, is typically to give up.  Write it off as a hopeless failure and indulge myself with mindless eating or 40 minutes of House or better yet, both!  But as we both know, that doesn't fix anything. It just takes your mind off of it for a while.  Instead, what are realistic options, besides quitting? There's the do something different option we talked about yesterday. Though, when you know you're doing what is appropriate, necessary or just right that might not apply. So, what about waiting? Praying about it, giving the rest to God, having faith that you are doing enough, giving the results time to manifest.

I'll be honest, I am awful at this part.  I'm starting to believe that a large part of my weight struggles have been due to giving up too fast - not giving anything enough time and attention to work.  Once I embraced that, it's sobering to think about how much potential in my life that I've spoiled by quitting too soon.  For any goal that's ever been important to me, its success had little to do with one moment in time, but the consistent commitment of numerous days in a row.  Just because the results aren't in today, doesn't mean they won't come.  Just not yet.

Isaiah 40:31

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 be faint.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

Totally understand all of this. I give up entirely too fast. Loved the verse at the end. I sent it to a friend who needs encouragement.

What Happens If You're Disappointed This Week?

Disappointment is a big issue with kids around.  Every parent will tell you not to say a word about a trip to the zoo or a possible visitor ...