Choosing in 2012

Though I rarely make New Year's Resolutions, there are always things I desire to accomplish, areas I wish to improve. To be honest, the main reason I shy away from weighty annual declarations is my propensity to be more of a starter than a finisher; just ask the 101 incomplete projects laying around my house (if you can find them).

Oh, I spend a lot of time preparing to start. Unfortunately, most of my time and energy is expended in initial stages. First, there's the abundance of good habits from which to choose: becoming more organized by creating schedules, spreadsheets, systems; saving money by following savings blogs, clipping or printing (and remembering to use) coupons; meal planning, exercising, eating right, and the list goes on. Then, because I'm an information gatherer (and still haven't settled on the habit to put into practice), I spend oodles of time on the world wide web determining how other people have ordered their habits. This frequently leads to the discovery of yet another fantastic habit (and free charts and printables.)

Undoubtedly, my organized, focused, and administratively gifted friends are sadly shaking their heads by now. I am, too! My husband would be nodding his head. In agreement. He's witnessed this frenzy countless times, and still he loves me.

Recently, while perusing a myriad of tips and tidbits, I heard it. That still, small voice as it whispered, "one thing." The arrow hit it's mark. The point hit home. Choosing habits to pursue and resolutions to make isn't wrong, but if I think tasks are the key to fixing my life, I'm missing the one thing that is necessary. There are countless great patterns and practices; however, if adding them is my idea and not His, I am distracted and pulled. I am bypassing the Solution for an alternative that will not last. I know because I've done it too many times.

Don't get me wrong, this year I will make lists, I will plan meals, I will aim to save money (and try to remember to use coupons), I may even learn to make a spreadsheet without throwing a techno-tantrum; but above all, I want to choose the good portion. I won't find it on a calendar, chart, or checklist; I will receive it as I sit at the feet of my King.

"The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot...
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore."
Psalm 16:5,11