JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
As we ring in the New Year, it is a time of expectancy and thoughtfulness. Some relish making New Year's resolutions, such as losing weight or eating healthy. Others set goals and plans, such as going back to school or making a commitment in a relationship. Also, there might be a pertinent question lurking in one'smind like "Will there be a PCS or a promotion?" There is a feeling of opportunity and hope in the air, and one wonders what the New Year may hold.
Perhaps you have heard the joke about a bus driver who said over the intercom, "I have good news and bad news. The bad news is we're lost. The good news is we're making great time."
Do you ever feel like you're making great time, but not sure if you are headed toward the right goal? There are several factors to consider when making decisions and goals for your life.
First, it is important to look at the big picture, not just the immediate gratification of the situation. Living for the moment can be costly and harmful; detrimental to you and those you love. Secondly, does the goal align with your personal convictions and character. Does it match those convictions you hold deep within your heart; the values you have treasured and defended? Thirdly, does the decision bring peace of mind. Can you honestly say that you have a clear conscious about the decision you made. Will it be a firm foundation upon which other decisions can be built?" Of course, there are many other factors to consider. These are just a few guidelines that may help you determine if you are going in the right direction, instead of speeding toward the wrong goal.
It is worth taking a second look at any situation that you do not have peace about. One pastor had a saying called "God's grammar" It went like this, "Never put a comma where God puts a period, and never put a period where God puts a comma." When a door is firmly closed it may be time to move on, let go and open yourself to something new. There are other times when one loses hope only to find that in the end everything works out as hoped and planned. Are you giving up too soon or holding on too long? You are the only one who can determine this. Perhaps stepping back and rethinking things will help you to see things from a different perspective, from an eternal perspective.
May you have a very happy and healthy New Year. May all your plans and decisions bring peace. And may God have favor upon us all in 2013!