Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Focus = Greater Effectiveness

Focusing on the most important things in life is an issue for me. I have many "have-to's," but I love doing many things with many wonderful people. But I am finding that I prefer to do the few "right" things for me in excellence than spreading myself too broadly with fatigue and less than my best in performance. Most of all I desire to please God and fulfill my purpose in the Kingdom of God.

This is a first in a series of questions I'm using to sharpen my focus and hopefully increase my effectiveness. Jesus used questions to encourage His disciples in discerning God’s will in their lives. I was inspired by "201 Great Questions that Help Simplify Your Life” by Jerry Jones. Navpress. I know some of you can help me; so jump right in with any advice you can offer:

Kay's Life Focus Questions:

1. What is in the way of what I want in my life? I want to trade _________ in my life for ______.

2. What simple inexpensive pleasures bring me the most enjoyment?

3. Are there ways I am sacrificing quality of life or joy to hold onto a higher standard of living or more stuff?

4. How much does TV watching clutter my time and atmosphere?


5. Since the 1950’s our houses have doubled in size, on average, while at the same time our family size has been cut in half. Am I caught up in a culture mindset of thinking about my home: size, furnishings, etc?


6. Do I have any "toys” or hobbies in my life that are complicating rather than simplifying my life? Hint: I love words, books and written information...I've got to do something with all this paper!! Help!!


7. What can I learn from Jesus’ example of simple living?



3 comments:

Kelly said...

#1 remindes me of the song..."I'm trading my sorrows, I'm trading my shame, I'm laying them down for the joy of the Lord."

How I want to trade all my baggage for the light burden of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Marilyn in Mississippi said...

Ouchhhhhh.....Kay you have stepped on my toes today! I can see from your questions so many areas that I need to work on in my life!

I sure appreciate you and all you stand for!

Marilyn

sailorcross said...

The one word that comes to my mind as I read this is "simplify".

Jesus led a very simple life, no place to call his permanent home, no clutter. He counted on His Father to provide all for Him, and He did!!

Simplify, simplify!! Now, I have to go get rid of some clutter!! Yes, there is a lot of it around. Since my son has moved in with me, it looks as though I live in an eBay auction!!

Focus-faith-fearlessness-forgiveness--

Beth

© 2008 Kay Martin

Thrive In Christ

Who I Am In Christ by Neil Anderson

For several months we will center on this book to pursue Thriving in our Christian journey.

Neil challenges us with: "Do you know who you are in God's eyes? We are no longer products of our past. We are primarily products of Christ's work on the cross. Who we are determines what we do.

You are not who you are in Christ because of the things you have done, you are in Christ because of what He has done. He died and rose again so that you and I could live in the FREEDOM of His love."

That's just the introduction. More to follow.