I have occasionally gone through phases when it feels there is so much to do, I don’t know where to start, so I just do nothing. Obviously, that’s not productive or helpful, so for a little motivation, I try taking inventory on what should be done, and I make to-do lists. I like to physically write mine out, so I can see my progress when I mark off the items I complete. That feels good and gives me the sense of accomplishment to keep going. (Sometimes I’ll sneak a small task on the list just so I can mark it off.) I am currently working my way through one list and am actually making decent progress. So far, my summer to-do lists involve projects regarding the yard, multiple administrative errands, and going through long-neglected storage. Some to-do list items will be accomplished easily; some will take a little more time and effort. Some will be accomplished by taking one small step at a time; some will likely not go as planned. I might not get to them all but working on these goals does feel like I’m moving forward and making improvements.
While I am taking summer inventory on these needed household tasks, I am also mindful that this new season is a fitting opportunity to spend prayerful time on my spiritual inventory. If I created a to-do list of faith, what should be on it? What is most needed right now to keep me moving forward and making improvements as a member of the Body of Christ? What have I done well in living my faith so far this year, and what areas of my spirit need more growth? Has my heart been open to hearing God’s voice and will for me, or have I not listened as I should? Have I asked God to journey with me, or have I been wandering on my own? Have I treated my brothers and sisters with love and grace, or have I brought about any hurts?
Our to-do lists – our ‘inventory’ – of faith might not need to be written down and checked off but simply made in prayerful conversation with the Lord. If we don’t know where to start, He will guide us to the acts of faith and love we might be overlooking. When we ask, He will show us how to better open our hearts to serve Him in our care for one another. And in unending love, He will accompany us and help move us forward in faith.
If you want to know what God wants you to do, ask him, and he will gladly tell you, for he is always ready to give a bountiful supply of wisdom to all who ask him. (James 1:5)
Journeying to Grace 