Am I being Intentional?

What comes to mind when you think of the word intentional? Perhaps you think planning ahead of time or thinking through something before you give your opinion or maybe having a goal in mind and taking the correct actions to make that happen.

Many times while teaching a fitness class I remind those there to be intentional in their movements. To think through the muscle they are working at that specific time and not to let their mind wander. For example, I tell them to think about the bicep muscle working as they are doing a curl. I also remind those at my class to be intentional about working hard in class, whatever fitness level they are at. They need to decide at they beginning of class, before things get tough, that they are going to work hard and not quit. I don't want anyone just working at 50%, I want 100% from each person. I often tell them that I am not in the business of wasting anyone's time. I also know how good they will feel about themselves once they are done and know that they have worked hard.

Being intentional in your exercise habits is a small example, but what about in our relationship with our spouse and our children? What about the most important relationship we have, the one with Christ. Are you intentional about spending time with Christ, reading His word, spending time in prayer and using the abilities He has given you to serve others and tell them about Christ? What about your relationship with your spouse? Are you intentional about loving them? I'm not talking about a quick hug or kiss, although that is important. I'm talking about serving them, lifting them up on a daily basis, thanking them for the sacrifices they make for you and even bragging to others about your spouse. It will get back to them whether you were putting them down or speaking highly of them and wouldn't you rather it be the latter?

Things don't just happen, it is a result of our actions. I tell my classes often that you just don't "happen" to get in really great shape, you have move your body and watch what you put in your mouth. In your marriage, you will reap the benefits of being intentional and putting your spouses needs ahead of yours. The same goes for your relationship with Christ, it won't progress if you aren't putting the time in. He longs to spend time with you and you will be blessed beyond what you could imagine if you discipline yourself to spend time with Christ and obey his leading.

I will leave you with this from Hebrews 6:10-12
"God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised."


Grateful,
Katy