GOOD START

Have you thanked Him?

Have you praised Him?

Have you made it your priority to agree and cooperate with Him today?

Have you taken that deep breath and listened for what He has for you today?

1 Timothy 2:1 (The Message)

The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know.

Getting off to a good start is crucial to a successful race.

Swimmers and track athletes spend countless hours on the blocks honing the craft of getting off the perfect start.

They tune their muscles and mind so precisely so that as soon as they hear the crack of the starters pistol or the beep of the electronic starter they spring into action and a good race is underway!

Our days are not much different. A good start can set the tone for an entire day.

Let's face it, we all have experienced the devastating effects of a “bad start” haven’t we?

Wake up on the wrong side of the bed.

Have a morning spat.

Spill the coffee.

Burn an egg. 

Carry yesterday’s concerns and anxiety into today. Those things usually don't translate into a good day, do they?

And never forget, the enemy would love nothing more to damage your “start”; to dampen your mood, to put a little “cranky” in your crankshaft just to ruin the potential of the day.

That is why it is crucial to “practice” getting out of the blocks on a good foot and in good position to run today’s race!

Start here.

Proverbs 4:23 (MSG)

Keep vigilant watch over your heart; that’s where life starts.

Don’t talk out of both sides of your mouth; avoid careless banter, white lies, and gossip.

Keep your eyes straight ahead; ignore all sideshow distractions.

Watch your step, and the road will stretch out smooth before you.

Look neither right nor left; leave evil in the dust.

Set your heart and mind to listening and doing what the Lord commands.

Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. Colossians 3:2 (ESV)

Don’t allow yourself to get distracted.

Don’t allow the enemy to hurt your start or keep you from a “good run” today.

A good start will set a good state of mind and a good state of mind can make for a good day. Don’t minimize its importance!

So let’s prep.

Pause.

Take a breath.

Time for a little prayer?

Filled up with a little Word?

You relaxed?

The day is out in front of you.

Heart ready? Mind ready?

3-2-1

GO!

God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. (and now we are)

off and running… from Philippians 3:14 (MSG)

Remember:

“You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great”― Zig Ziglar

I love you all.

Have a blessed weekend!

OPPORTUNITIES for HOPE