There's just something about the new year that makes me seriously contemplate life. I'm not quite sure what it is. Other than the passage of time, there is no difference between December 31st at 11:59 p.m. and January 1st at 12:00 a.m. I guess it's the possibilities a new year brings. A chance to make changes...to continue striving towards the goal.
I journaled extensively yesterday during my quiet time. As I poured out my heart to the Lord, my mind turned to the practicality of my goals. Looking over the list, I began to see a need to quantify what I was hoping to accomplish. Goals need to be specific. There needs to be some way to measure whether or not we have achieved what we set out to do. Though maybe a noble goal, "To become a better person" is difficult the assess.
My main goal for 2008 is to know the LORD more deeply by the end of the year than I do now. Again, a great goal, but how will I know if I have succeeded? Here comes the practical part. I have determined to memorize one new scripture verse a week pertaining to some area the LORD is speaking to me about. As I meditate on the verse, hiding it in my heart, I am coming to know the Author more deeply. Just think, at the end of the year that's 52 verses committed to memory. This week's verse pertains to my words. If you've been reading here awhile, you might remember I have a certain affinity for sticking my foot in my mouth. "Anyone who guards what he says guards his life. But anyone who speaks without thinking will be destroyed." Proverbs 13:3
Another place the rubber meets the road is my exercise goal. Ugh...I even hesitate to make goals like these because, as I've mentioned many times, I hate to exercise. Mentally battling myself each day is not cutting it. I need something more and since Jillian (the kick butt trainer from The Biggest Loser) is not knocking on my door offering her services, I came up with another solution. A friend and I are going to work towards running a 5K together. Luckily this friend LOVES to exercise, teaches kick boxing even. It's all about accountability my friend. Maybe I can get her to dress in all black and act tough like Jillian. Nah, Linz, you're too nice!
Anyone else setting goals for the new year?
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