And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6
Part of the sermon this past Sunday was a list of 30 ways to waste your life. It was so popular I thought you might like to have this list of 10 ways not to waste your life. Hope you are challenged by this list!
Believe- Belief is the most powerful, positive life-changer in the arsenal. Believe that you are a valued person with something to contribute, and chances are you will. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made… Psalm 139:14a
Know where you’re headed- Setting and achieving goalsis necessary for purposeful change. Both short term, and long-term. Make me know Your ways, O LORD; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; For You I wait all the day.
Psalm 25:4-5
Psalm 25:4-5
Identify a better reference point for success- Know that our standard for a successful life is found in serving others, being a great parent, loving our spouse. These standards are more conducive to satisfaction and success than what the world vies as success – outer beauty, possessions, and money. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. Matthew 6:20
Value relationships above all else- Value relationships above results. Value serving others above being served. Value investing in people above investing in things. For who is the greater, one who reclines at table or one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at table? But I am among you as the one who serves. Luke 22:27
Remember where your joy and value comes from- A dependence on anything external for happiness is unnecessary:If we “need” others to make us happy, or if we need achievements to feel worthy, we undermine our reason for being. The simple fact that we are loved and valued by the Creator is sufficient. Your joy comes from knowing who you are and whose you are. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Philippians 4:4
Live in the moment- “I’ll feel like I’ve achieved something when _________ happens.” “Just let me get that new ________, and I’ll be good.” This kind of thinking ensures we’ll remain dependent on “more” for satisfaction. Live in the moment. Be grateful for what we have right now. Be content in our present circumstances. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. Philippians 4:11
Defer short-term thrills in favor of long-term rewards- We often sacrifice long-term joy, satisfaction and contentment for short-term thrills and personal pleasure. Things like sex outside of marriage, pornography, and gambling will never satisfy. What will satisfy is a relationship with God, lasting and loving relationships, living a life of purpose, and hard work. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7
Always continue learning- Life-long learners adopt the ongoing posture of reinvention and redemption. Learners ask questions rather than act as if they know all the answers. It’s difficult to waste your life when you are humble and open to new ideas.Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance, Proverbs 1:5
Don’t sweat the small stuff- Knowing what we value puts everything else into perspective. If we know what really matters in life, then we’re not as likely to get caught up in, or bothered by, things that don’t have a long-term or eternal impact. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Luke 12:34
Never do anything you wouldn’t be comfortable doing in the presence of your Maker- If in doubt about this, talk it over with God first.…those who seek me diligently find me. Proverbs 8:17
