Schedules

The simple truth is that I like schedules. I like plans. I like to-do lists and check marks. I like time frames and promptness.

I'm struggling in all said areas above.

Right now my schedule is hit or miss. My plans tend to fail. My to-do lists get longer and there are fewer and fewer check marks. Time frames are stressors and promptness is a thing for tomorrow.

It is so hard to describe to people what it is like to be in this deputation stage of missionary work. Everyday that I wake up I have to immediately choose to trust the Lord, put my hope in Him alone and find my joy in His promises. If I don't choose these things, well, it's probably going to be a bad day.

I don't think being a scheduled person is a bad thing or a bad quality to have. Believe me, if I wasn't this way my life would look very different and many poor decisions would have been made frequently along the way. I am thankful for my planned out lifestyle.

However, there is one significant downfall I see, and have seen more of in the last few months. There are times when all of my careful planning can hinder or even squelch Holy Spirit. This is ultimately the worst downfall.

The last thing I want is my scheduling, planning and check lists to grieve the work of Holy Spirit in my life. There is a blessing to be found when you surrender your desires and allow the Lord full access to your heart.

It's a fine balance though. Right now my life is a little all over the place. I am in great need of a structured schedule. I was once told by a mentor that it is an absolute must to schedule your prayer time. Now that might seem odd but it is so true. Like he told me, if you don't schedule your prayer time, you won't pray. And if you don't schedule your study time, you won't study. It's just the truth.

For the last 2 weeks I have been horribly undisciplined in my time with the Lord. And wow can I tell the difference! And so can everyone I'm around I'm sure. My attitude stinks, my thoughts are yucky, my energy level is zilch. It is time to get back to my disciplined schedule and go deeper with my Jesus.

So yeah, all of that to say... Schedules are good. Being disciplined is better. And having a schedule that is disciplined and lead by Holy Spirit is best!

Happy Monday friends!
~Nicole