So I perceived that there was nothing better for human beings but to enjoy what they do because that’s what they’re allotted in life. Who, really, is able to see what will happen in the future?
Ecclesiastes 3:22 CEB
The start of a new year is always a great time for personal reflection. This could mean taking the time to think about where we are in life, and how we feel about our current state. Are there some new behaviors, actions, or ways of thinking we want to start? Or maybe even more importantly, are there desires, attitudes, and habits that we need to stop?
It’s easy to get lost in the responsibilities of everyday life – working, taking care of family, managing a home, paying bills, coordinating schedules, maintaining friendships, and managing mealtime (Sidenote: It’s simply exhausting having to come up with new meals every day – someone HELP!)
I just noticed there was one thing I forgot from this list. Probably because I also forget it in my personal life – taking care of SELF!
If there’s one lesson I can take from 2023, it’s that I’ve been doing a pretty crappy job of taking care of myself. I take excellent care of the people God has placed in my life. But me? Not so much.
And I have no idea why – I’m the only one who is with me 24x7, the only human on earth who knows every single thing about me: every emotion I’ve felt, every tear I’ve cried, every joy I experienced, every desire of my heart – why would I not take better care of me? I’m the only one who is going to be with me every moment for the rest of my life.
This week we continue in Ecclesiastes chapter 3. After we’ve read about all the seasons there are in life, we are reminded how important it is to find joy in the life God has given us, as we don’t know how many days we each have left on earth. So we need to be intentional about making every day matter.
Here are some things we can ponder as we reflect on our lives:
Our Careers - What did we dream about doing at 12 years old? Are we doing it? Is there joy in our vocation?
Our Relationships – Are they pouring into us, or depleting us? Are they healthy, or is it time to re-evaluate our circles?
Our Health – Are we eating the right foods? Getting the recommended exercise? Getting the proper rest and rejuvenation? Are we aware of our mental and emotional health?
And the most important area of reflection:
Our Faith – Are we regularly spending time with God? Do we read our Bible every day? Do we talk to God about how we are feeling, and do we feel connected to Him? Do we experience His love on a daily basis?
If you feel like you are barely keeping your head above water, or that nothing is changing in your life, or you can’t remember the last time you felt peace or joy, I encourage you to join me in this time of reflection, so we can start making the most of every single day God has blessed us to live.
My prayer is that 2024 is the best revolution around the sun that you have ever experienced!
Take the time to think about the above reflective questions. What changes would you like to make in your life? Share your thoughts with a confidant, who can hold you accountable for taking action to make the most out of your life.