Living a Faith-Filled Life

When some of my friends and colleagues read the title to this blog post, I know what they're going to do. First they will either laugh or roll their eyes. Then they'll wonder if I'm going to tell you how to be overcommitted, because I do it so well.

I have to admit. My mind goes something like this: 

"Whew! What a day. . . I can finally relax." 

(Five minutes later)

"I feel guilty. I wonder what volunteer opportunities I can sign up for."


Yeah, it's really kind of like that. I'm not high energy. Not at all. My mind, however is always looking for new interesting things to do. So, even when I'm tired and feeling stressed out, I think "Oh, next year, I want to write for that devotional book. And, in the fall, I'm going to make sure I start a writing group for the high school. Oh, how hard would it be to do one for the elementary school, too? One for the older kids and one for the younger ones, of course. They'll love it!"

That was yesterday, while I was substitute teaching and contemplating how I would meet my writing deadline and save a Yahoo group that's about to close. No wonder I took a nap after school. But, I still decided to do all that stuff anyway.

Why?

Why do we sometimes get too involved?  Well, we're just really helpful people. That's all.

And, I do have a mental process that I go through before verbalizing my commitments.

1. First, the awesome idea runs through my mind with all it's sparkle and great music. It catches my attention and makes me feel great!
2. Then, I think about what's actually involved. If it's just a time commitment, without much homework, it's easier to say yes. If it takes lots of homework but is writing-related, then it also is easier to say yes. If it isn't in my strength area (like making phone call!!) then the sparkle and music fade fast. I cross it off my list.
3. Then, I look at my mental calendar (which isn't nearly as complete as my actual calendar.) I calculate the time it will take me and think about how it will impact anything else already on my schedule.
4. I think about how it will impact my family and my future.
5. If it still sounds good, I sometimes talk to people about it.
6. Somewhere between #3 and #4 I have started praying about the idea. Is this something God thinks is a good idea, too?
7. Then, if I still have enthusiasm, I say yes. I don't turn down too many things, because they are so rewarding.


Maybe it's that good old German Lutheran guilt trip for thinking about relaxing, but I always have several things going on. My family doesn't always realize it, because lots of the things are in my head - stories, devotions, teaching ideas, etc. My brain is very busy.

Once in a while, I overcommit. My obligations overlap, and it's really a case of poor time management or (more often) unnecessary worry.  I do tend to worry when I shouldn't. I need to trust that my commitment will work out like I planned (or better yet, as God has planned.)

Okay - enough for now - I have lots of stuff to do!