Courageous Change: How to Boldly Pivot When Pain or Plateaus Are Keeping You StuckSample

Day 4: Pause-Change Your Will

Today, you will prepare to make courageous change by determining how willing you are to get unstuck from whatever is holding you back. Begin by slowing down and taking a moment to pause. Ask yourself this very important question prior to taking action towards your goals.

“How willing am I to make this change in my life?”

Before responding, think about what achieving this goal or dream will look like. How will your life be different? If you have tried before and failed to see your vision become a reality, what hindered you? Do you have a plan in place to work through these issues should they reoccur? This is an opportunity for you to learn from your past mistakes and not allow them to keep you stuck.

You don't need to have it all figured out before you start your journey, but you will need perserverance to cross the finish line. Like going on a diet with a cupboard full of potato chips and chocolate chip cookies, if you don’t let go of what is holding you back, you will never see your dreams become a reality. Your motivation to fit into your skinny jeans should outweigh your desire to satisfy your appetite.

Taking your time to think and plan is much better than having to deal with the consequences of procrastination, excuses, and wondering if your dream will ever come true. I should know. I have done this more times that I care to confess. When the Lord gives us a vision for our lives, it may take some time to come to fruition, so be patient with the process.

We can gain a better understanding of why it is important to wait for God's timing by studying the life of Jesus. Do you remember the story of the wedding at Cana in Galilee? Mary, the mother of Jesus, came to him seeking help because the host of the celebration had run out of wine. Jesus responded to her by saying, “Woman, why do you involve me? My hour has not yet come” (John 2:1-4).

Jesus always sought guidance from his Father before taking action. He waited and submitted to the will of his Father before proceeding, an example we should all follow.

Before you act on your plans, consider how you will answer the following questions.

• Am I clear on my intended goal?
• Do my plans align with God’s will?
• How hard am I willing to work to achieve my goal?
• Am I willing to wait if necessary?
• Am I willing to stop making excuses or procrastinating?
• Am I willing to start today?

For now, slow down and take a pause. The Lord’s timing is perfect. Remember, when the Lord gives you a vision, goal, or dream, it will continue to grow until it is fulfilled. Have faith while you wait patiently for him to show you your next step.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus. Thank you for teaching me patience while I wait for you to reveal your plans for my life. I know your plans for me are good, so I will trust in your perfect timing. Please give me the strength to step out when you call me and the endurance to finish the race. Amen.