Hello my friends!
As I embark on this new journey, I am already seeing a difference in how I feel, in both my productivity and decision making. Slowly, I am finding habits and creating space in my life to follow the dreams that God has imbedded in my heart. Consistency must start somewhere, why not here? The long-standing joke between my husband and I is that the only thing I am consistent at is being inconsistent, and tears spring to my eyes in deep emotion as God reveals that this is not only untrue, but words are powerful.
Jesus tells us in Matthew 12:36 – 37, “But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” Our words breathe life into our thoughts; when I confess that I am inconsistent in all things, then I will not try to be consistent in anything. Friends, this is a tactic from the enemy to hinder us. It may start small and innocent like this joke with my husband, but easily spins out of control, reminding me to be intentional with my words.
As I purpose in my heart to be intentionally consistent, God reveals the areas of my life where I have successfully reached this target. Daily I read my bible and spend time in prayer before God. My dogs are walked on a regular basis throughout the year: winter, spring, summer, or fall. Church attendance is not an option and my relationships with my children and husband hold a high priority in my life. While I still have lots of room for improvement, reflecting on these few serves as a reminder that being consistent is about making choices.
Consistency is not, however, doing the same things day in and day out, building mundane routines. According to Merriam-Webster, being consistent is: “marked by harmony, regularity, or steady continuity: free from variation or contradiction.” In other words, consistency means being there when I said I would be there, finishing what I said I would finish, living with integrity. As Jenny shared, “consistent people are reliable people.” Consistent people do not need to justify their actions or lack thereof.
Justification is another area that has held me back: “I don’t feel well,” “I’m too tired,” “I forgot,” “I was too busy,” and the list continues. Another reminder to be careful with my words. Jesus warns against this type of reasoning in Luke 14, the parable of the great supper. A rich ruler invites the guests to dinner, but they all have excuses not to go. In the end, they missed an opportunity. God does not want us to miss opportunities. He may convict our hearts, but He also fights the battle with us and for us!
What a beautiful revelation, we are not alone in this. “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you,” (James 4:7). God warned Cain in Genesis 4:7 to rule over sin, if this was not possible, God would not have declared it. Through Christ all things are possible. As I strive toward these convictions, I must put excuses to death and walk with consistent and intentional accountability.
Next week we will dig a little deeper. Thank you for taking the time to read this post, it is my hope that you find it easy to read, relatable, and inspiring. Please share your comments, questions, and ideas. God bless you!