Reflect & Recalibrate

"If you aim at nothing, you'll hit it every time." - Anonymous 

The end of the year and the beginning of a new one provides a great opportunity to reflect on our experiences, our accomplishments, & our relationships. What is working? What isn't working? Where are my wheels spinning aimlessly? It doesn't take much to live a life of intentionality and meaning. But it does take moments of reflection & recalibration.

LOOK BACK: Reflect on 2017. What are you most proud of in 2017? Where did you grow the most?

LOOK AROUND: Grade each area A, B, C, D, or an F:

1. Soul – Where is my relationship with God? How is my faith?
2. Heart – Where is my attitude? What emotion is an obstacle to my goals?
3. Body – Am I eating right, sleeping well, & exercising?
4. Marriage or Singleness – Is this area healthy, growing, & life-giving?
5. Family – Is there peace with my kids and/or extended family? Have i forgiven?
6. Relationships – Am I developing quality friendships? Am I a selfless friend?
7. Career – Would Jesus be proud of my performance? Have i given my best?
8. Ministry – Am I giving my time and talents? Am I making a difference?
9. Finances – Is my house in order? Am I giving? Am I generous?
10. Technology – Is my use of computer, social media, etc honoring to God?

LOOK AHEAD: Reflect on your evaluations above. Then write one statement to get better (application not just observation) for each area of life.

LOOK AGAIN: What if you took some time each month to reflect on this exercise and answer the questions fresh? How would your life look different? How could the intentionality of reflection and recalibration change the way you life your life? I have found that when I practice these disciplines it also gives God an opportunity to speak into the process. What is God saying through the process of reflection and recalibration? What does He want for me? How does He want to be included? Don't lose heart because you are not in this alone. You have God on your side!

DON’T FORGET:

The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps. - Proverbs 16:9

GOD WILL ESTABLISH OUR STEPS!

TALK ABOUT IT: Questions to process with family, friends, & yourself.

1. Why do our lives need intentional reflection & recalibration? 
2. How does a spiritual discipline like fasting help us to recalibrate?
3. Have you ever tried fasting? How did it go? What could you make it better?
4. Who have you included in your recalibration? Why is this important?
5. How do you believe God will establish your steps in 2018?