goals

January 21, 2024

Steer the Way


“Stop here. Now, back slowly. Turn the steering wheel just so… and now into the spot between the two cars… Got it!”

I recall the time, many years ago now, when I took driver’s ed in high school and had to learn to parallel park. It was a bit of a challenge at first. Steering the car just so took some practice… Perhaps you can relate.

I saw a sign recently that read, “Make God your steering wheel…” That same day, I heard on the radio, “Steering is easier when you are in motion. It’s harder to turn the steering wheel when sitting still.” That got me to thinking.

When we ask someone to “steer me in the right direction” we are asking which way to go to find something or for help in making a right decision. A prayer in the book of Psalms says, “Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths.* James used illustrations about bits in the mouths of horses to turn them and large ships driven by strong winds yet steered by a small rudder.*

It may seem obvious, but steering requires movement. Moving involves taking steps and making decisions. How many goals, dreams, or calls have I had but have felt too distracted, insecure, or weak to persevere and pursue them?

Like parallel parking it may take some practice and work to move. Prayer and trusting God to do the steering and to show us the right way helps us move forward one step at a time. There are some things that I’ve had to set to the side for a while but there are good things in their place for now… and that’s a thought for another day.

My prayer for us all is that we will trust God to show us His way and that we will trust Him to do the steering. Ever willing, ever moving. Be encouraged and celebrate the small steps.

*Psalm 25:4, James 3:3-4
Charlotte-Anne Allen

January 8, 2021

Reflections on Rowboats

• Strength of character is an asset
• Dedication and hard work are commendable
• Working together brings about strong finishes
• Think and pray before making commitments
• When you make a commitment stick to it
• Keep your goals ever before you
• Remember to take time out for a slower pace
• Spend quiet solitary time to reflect
• Join others in relaxed company
• Letting go of anxiety develops inner peace
• Mind and body absorb whatever you immerse yourself in
• Thoughts turned to the Spirit lead to contentment in life

from “Reflections from the Everyday”

November 13, 2020

Reflections on Brakes

  • Days are full of starting and stopping
  • Slowing down allows space for thought and resolution
  • Gaining speed brings us to new places
  • Look ahead to determine impact, needs, and goals
  • Checking the rear mirror keeps us alert to approaching situations
  • Resist danger by being prepared to brace yourself
  • Sometimes change is indicated or is thrust upon you
  • Timing of actions and words can be critical
  • In times of change, you may need to slow before continuing
  • Be alert to oncoming traffic when facing challenges
  • Digging in your heels makes it difficult to make progress
  • Keep aware of others and the impact you may have
  • Early warnings help us to prepare or to change course
  • The Conductor provides guidance in applying and letting up on the brakes

from “Reflections from the Everyday”

August 29, 2020

Preparation

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I lifted my nose appreciatively as the scent of apples wafted through the house, creating images of years gone by. It was the season for apples, one I always looked forward to. In the town where I grew up, we had one large old apple tree and several smaller ones in our backyard. They were the best red apples anywhere! I still remember their sweet crisp taste, although the trees are now long gone.

Gathering and preparing those apples was a family affair. We separated the older apples that the bees, birds, and other insects were enjoying and brought the others in to wash and pare, setting some aside for eating as they were. A lot of preparation went into canning the applesauce, sliced apples, apple butter, and apple jelly, not to mention apple pie, cake, or other goodies. Preparing ahead of time made the work go easier and the results were appreciated during the months ahead.

Preparation is a part of life. Sometimes we are called to prepare things in advance of events, like setting the table for a meal or arranging items for a program. I remember the story of John the Baptist, as prophesied by the prophet Isaiah, “See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way.” * John’s words got the people who heard them ready to receive the words of Jesus.

While I have learned to “go with the flow” when needed and have enjoyed occasional spontaneous activities, preparation is important for daily routines as well as long-term future needs, goals, or hopes. It reminds me of the movie trailers released as previews to upcoming shows. Haven’t we all at some time, upon seeing a preview or hearing of the anticipated release date, said, “Oh, I’d like to see that!” The movie previews put the word out that something good is coming that we just don’t want to miss!

How can we prepare ourselves to receive the words God has for us? It has been easy in times past to let my good intentions slide away or my quiet time with God to be relegated to a quick, sometimes desperate, “Oh God, please help me today” as I rush out the door. I don’t want to miss the good things coming or the encouragement offered in a mad rush to the next thing.

Like those apple gathering seasons, to receive the full benefit and goodness God has in store for me I have to prepare to receive Him. Times for quiet, for worship, for study, for listening, for fellowship, for obedience, or for action must be intentional. Discovering what these are for us and making them a priority is part of the preparation.

I hope that we can pause to ask ourselves regularly, “How am I preparing to receive God and the blessings, love, guidance, and support He has for me each day?”

*Mark 1:2