Improvement Can Be Tough

It's easy to do the status quo. To get by. Do what you've always done.

But, what about when you're tired of things being "average." Sick of just being decent? Ready to take the next step. To go from "the norm" to "the exceptional"?

It's not easy. Especially when you've been doing certain things for a long time. And, double-especially when there are a lot of people involved.

Many times, we'll see something that can be much greater than it currently is. We see what it COULD be. We see the potential.

At the same time, we see the obstacles. The long uphill battle that confronts us if we begin to implement changes. The toes of those we care about and work with that we may have to step on gingerly (or maybe a good steel-toed boot to the shin). There are lots of reasons to give up before you ever start.

But, while change is certainly work, almost always the rewards will outweigh the challenges we face, particularly if we seek God's guidance in the process. We have no promises of success when we make changes, tweaks, and improvements to the things we do. But, having the right heart, and the right attitude will pay dividends.

It's likely that in your family, your organization, or your personal life, you recognize areas that can be taken to the next level. But, you also see road blocks. You see the bridges that can burn, the finances that can be squandered, and the long hours you may have to invest.

I encourage you to pray about these things. Identify people you can trust and confide in along the way. Develop a plan. And remain (or try to become) humble.

If you trust God as the Lord of your life, you need to know that He is your biggest fan. He wants you to succeed infinitely more than you do yourself. And, He'll be with you as you make changes - sometimes bold ones - to set a higher standard for yourself and those around you.

But, it may be tough. Strike that. It will almost certainly be tough.

James 1:2-5 says this: ...you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. (NIV)

Persevere, seek God's wisdom, and know He has a plan for you.

Don't settle.