Intentional Living

"Intentional" is sort of a buzz word lately. To do something deliberately, on purpose, with a deeper reason behind it...I guess that would sum up my own definition. As someone who tends to go through life somewhat lackadaisically (which, by the way, is a really fun word to spell), being intentional is not my norm. I have realized though that nothing good and worthwhile happens on its own.

I have my head stuffed full of scriptures, but for them to be of any use, I have to be intentional about calling them to mind. I have decided to change my method of discipline with my kids, but I have to intentionally make a different decision instead of doing what comes naturally. I am trying to make better choices when it comes to what I eat and snack on, and I have to be really focused and intentional when standing next to a basket of my favorite Easter candy. It is almost comical the way I can rip open a wrapper and wolf down a bunch of mini candy bars before I even remember that I was trying not to eat those.

Intentional.

Focused.

Aware.

Last night, in the middle of the night, I had to get up and take care of one of the kids. When I tried to fall back asleep, my mind was swirling with different situations that are cropping up. Instead of laying there playing the "What If?" game, I intentionally thought about a truth of God: not only does He have all things in His Hand, but His day actually starts at midnight. Genesis reminds us that the first day started in the evening and flowed into morning (Genesis 1:5). While I was tossing and turning, He was already at work. I gave Him the things that were making me feel helpless and afraid, confident that that would be way more productive. I could sleep knowing that God has all situations under His radar, and that He will provide me the grace and strength to face anything.

"For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those

whose hearts are fully committed to Him."

2 Chronicles 16:9