I knew what I needed to do. I was motivated… to a certain extent. I wanted the perks of another degree: job security, pay raise, and of course, that sense of accomplishment. But I didn’t love that I was staring at a mountain of work.
Maybe you’ve been there. Whether it’s weight-loss, kicking a bad habit, or working toward accomplishing a measure of success- attaining a self-improvement goal can feel like Mission Impossible.
The “how-to” is so very tightly linked to the “want-to”. The “want-to” long-term is so easily agreed upon, but the moment-by-moment adherence to discipline can prove quite challenging.
But guess what! Tucked inside his letter to the Philippians, Paul highlights two promises: “For it is God working in you, enabling you both to desire and to work out His good purpose.” (2:13, HCSB) God promises to help us in both the “want-to” and the “how-to”.
The “Want-to” : We are promised in Matthew 7:7 that whatever we ask God in faith, He will give it to us. Whether it’s strength, self-control, or momentary motivation we’re lacking, we can ask Him for help and trust He’ll supply it.
I asked God for motivation to get started on a monster project. My degree hinged on this one assignment. I’d never had this professor before, and was not certain of his expectations. The assignment was once and done. If it weren’t satisfactory, I would need to retake it another semester. Ahh! I prayed for motivation and a positive attitude. Then I began.
The “How-to”: we are promised in James 1:5 that when we don’t know what to do, we can go to God. Ask Him, and He’ll give us wisdom.
I was unsure how to proceed in the project. I prayed a lot. I sought help. I outlined the project into manageable steps. After several weeks I completed it. With both relief and dread, I submitted it. I learned a few days later, I passed. Woo hoo!
Those same promises apply to all challenges in life. Whatever we face, we can ask God to help us accomplish our “Mission Impossible.” Psalm 115:11 assures us, “You who fear the Lord, trust in the Lord. He is their help and their shield.” (HCSB) God does care about each and every detail, stressor, and challenge in our lives. He’s just waiting for us to invite Him into the equation. Won’t you join me in asking for His help?
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You that You do indeed care about all things. Please help me want to do what needs to be done. Please show me how to do it. Thank you, In Jesus’ name. Amen.