IMPACT

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”

Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV)

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.”

2 Timothy 2:15 (ESV)

IMPACT is my word for 2021.

I try to ask this question over everything:
“How does _____________IMPACT _________________ ?”

How do my food choices IMPACT my health?
How do the words I speak IMPACT the person receiving them?
How does the time I go to bed IMPACT how I function the next day?
How does what I accomplish today IMPACT tomorrow and beyond?
What does God want me to do to make the most positive IMPACT in this situation?
How can I make the biggest and best IMPACT in the lives of others?

Everything we do (or don’t do) has an impact on our lives and the lives of others. The impact is not always lasting if it only happens a time or two. Though it may not seem like these small actions could make an impact, when done regularly and consistently, they will affect our health, life path, and trajectory.

As we impact others, they will in turn affect those around them. If we smile and give others a positive comment or let them in ahead of us in traffic, they are more likely to share a kindness with someone else in their day.

Let’s make conscious choices to do what is most beneficial in each situation. What things do we know we need to do but haven’t started? Who do we need to contact but keep putting it off? What habits and activities are not benefiting us that we should let go of? Take time to reflect on areas where you can begin to make more positive changes. The Lord does not expect us to be perfect or make the best choices all of the time. But if we remind ourselves that we are doing everything for His glory, we will strive to improve.

PRAYER:
Dear Lord,
I want to make a positive IMPACT for Your kingdom. I long to do everything heartily for You. Please help me to focus on making the best choices and actions in each situation.
In Christ’s name, Amen.

Journal: Ask the Lord for guidance when making your plans for this week. How can you make the most positive IMPACT?

Photo by Ashton Clark on Unsplash