Restoring Balance In My Life

It’s a new year and I’ve learned that we don’t always have to begin again, instead maybe we should even reconsider the things of old. Not all that was is bad. There are experiences, failures and victories of my past that I know the Lord wants to use to renew my heart and mind and to sharpen and equip me for this season.

I see this as a process of restoration for me, to bring me back to a state of strength, soundness and vigor. To achieve the desired outcome I have to intentionally sit before the Lord and listen to him. Whew, I already know this is not going to be easy, but I am motivated by the desired outcome of balance in my busy life. I know as I prepare for some heart work I can look forward to the blessings of newness…new perspective and new possibilities!

Okay, so the first step of restoring balance in my life is not an easy step for me. To even get started it is necessary for me to take an honest look at the season of life that I’m in (wife, homemaker, mama (of three generations ages 31-12), homeschooler, MawMaw (of soon to be 13 grandchildren) and entrepreneur) and admit my limitations. I can NOT do everything that I desire to do for or with everyone. Just because “I am capable or I want to” doesn’t mean that it is good for me to do so.

I have to set boundaries for myself when it comes to making decisions about my daily activities. It is important for me to respond with careful consideration instead of reacting with emotions to the opportunities, needs or desires that are presented to me each day. The personal boundaries I set are for my mental and emotional well being. Often times, I am not honest with myself about my own limitations and I make spontaneous decisions that cause me to be frustrated and overwhelmed. So, I have to set and respect my personal boundaries as I’ve done in the past to experience consistent peace and joy in my busy life.

It is also important for me to move confidently. Yes, I hesitate when the Lord speaks to my heart or when it is time for me to move forward with a task or decision. Confidence is key to continuous progress. It doesn’t matter what I am doing, when I lack confidence I am sure to hinder the process as well as the balance in my life.

I can’t say enough about how important it has been for me to be honest with myself and God and to take the time to sit and listen to Him as I consider the days ahead. These things are as simple as a, b, c’s…admit my limitations, set boundaries and move confidently and yet as I embrace them consistently, they are going to make a big difference in restoring and maintaining balance in my life this year.

Is there something that God wants you to restore?