I’ve mentioned here before the profound impact of The Relevant Conference I attended last October. Hands down, it was the most eye-opening encounter I’ve participated in for a long time. Spiritually, emotionally, relationally…insights gained, my heart overwhelmed (in a good way) and fresh commitments to writing were a few of the benefits.
I plan to attend again this year.
There, among women of various backgrounds and interests, afforded opportunity to observe and freely speak about one main topic. One primary goal the organizers envisioned taking place through days of meals, sessions and interaction.
Let’s talk about being intentional.
Being intentional seems to be a new buzz word in America — blogs, news and magazine articles, books, are all competing for readers’ attention to their interpretation of the matter. Hmm…I guess that’s what I’m doing today? 🙂
But, practicing intentionality is not a new concept. It’s an ancient principle.
“Where there is no vision, the people perish..” (Proverbs 29:18a KJV)
“Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12 NIV)
“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 15-16 ESV)
We serve an intentional God who empowers His people to be the same.
How we each go about this however, is sooo different! Some of us spend time in grand planning and organizing, for others, a running to-do list kept mentally seems to do the trick. The problem is not really in the method, for those are as varied as individuals.
Maybe an issue lies in how we’ve labeled those methods.
I’ve seen it happen :: people dividing themselves into camps of simple or perhaps over-the-top based on how they organize, schedule family events, plan vacations, manage their money and the like. People apologizing or feeling guilty that their way of doing things is not affirmed by the group.
The beauty of the conference among other blessings was the freedom, the liberty to discuss this call to intentionality. Those with multiple responsibilities attempting the same — to honor God, our families and our callings. A purposeful life is everyone’s goal, true?
But we can get off-track and find ourselves in the extreme, intense category. How? A few examples ~
When a method, routine, schedule is no longer a servant, but an oppressive master & ruler
If there’s more concern for task-finishing than relationship-building
When we’re driven way too much by outside motivators such as approval of others
And much less by unseen motivators such as commitment and calling, even if there’s little recognition
Intensity fizzles out, a sprinter at best. Starting strong and fast, but with little stamina for the long-haul.
Intentional is a marathon. Miles and miles to run, taking the next steps daily, eyes on the finish line.
Intensity is emotionally driven :: a new book, an enticing commercial, or one conversation sends us bolting, with great energy barreling into the next project, with little regard for any preparation or how it might impact others.
Intentional pauses to consider and count the cost. Then with deliberate action, moves forward.
To live purposefully. To put the Big Rocks in First. To make our life count. We all want this and desire to do it well.
Maybe laying a foundation of intentionality versus one of scattered notions and actions is a first step?
Lord, grace us in the journey….
