"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:33 NIV)
As we begin to venture into this new year lying out ahead of us, many of us are focused on goal setting or planning for our businesses. And there is nothing wrong with doing so.
For those of us who are Christian business women, we are to be primarily focused on God, His kingdom, and His character.
Before we focus on our work, we are to first be mindful of His work.
How do we do this? These four steps make each day I begin this way the days where I am able to maintain my focus on God and His ways:
1. Start in His WORD.
I love to reread the New Testament every year, and remind myself of how Jesus lived His life among us, and the impact He had on His disciples, those He ministered to, and the church he established through them. This helps me remember that I too am a part of His church, His kingdom here on earth!
2. Start with GRATITUDE.
I honestly believe that an attitude of gratitude better equips us to face the harder days. Making a list of three things/people for which I am thankful for has become a habit I have continued since I first began several years ago after reading Ann Voskamp's book, 'One Thousand Gifts.' This attitude reminds me to look for how God is moving and blessing me each day, through His Presence and provision.
3. Start with PRAYER.
I usually write my prayers in a journal. Writing about whatever is on my heart. And after I do, I pause to listen for what God would like to say to me. It's usually a prompt - sometimes a bible verse, an image, or a song, and I write it down so I can remember it later on. This helps reassure me that God hears me, and answers prayer.
4. Start with SELF-CARE.
After I take care of myself in spirit, attitude and mind, I need to do so physically. I experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in the darker months, so I sit by a 10,000 watt lamp for 20-30 minutes each morning, then take my vitamins and medication, before I eat a healthy breakfast and drink my first glass of water. I alternate between reading a chapter of a book for fun, and singing along while in the shower.
Most days, I do all of this before getting ready for work. As I work both at home and onsite, these steps help align me with God - both who He is, and what He does.
By maintaining my focus on what is important to God - His kingdom, and His righteousness - I am better able to turn to Him when the day takes a turn for the unexpected, and best walk out my faith at work.
Taking This to God in Prayer
God, I want to demonstrate my faith at work in a way which both invites You to move in and through me, and gives You the honor and glory. Would You help me to focus each day on what matters most to You? Your Kingdom, Your character, Your ways. Help me to see each person I encounter as one who matters dearly to You, and assist me in treating every one through that lens of worth. May I lean into Your embrace before I face each day I am blessed with. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
I also love to read the Bible in different versions, especially if I want more clarity on a particular verse or passage. Matthew 6:33 in the Message translation really brings this verse alive in a fresh way:
"Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met."
What step would you add to your list on how to start your day? Let us know on social!
Karla, Christian Women at Work