As an Executive Coach the question I’d often ask clients was, “What’s gone wrong or what’s not working? After all, I’m supposed to help people improve in their business, personal, and spiritual life. Right?
I’d go on to say, “pick one thing” and fix it. The steps to a final solution may include a dozen things that need done but pick the one thing that will lead you to the next step and do it. Then pick the next thing.
If only life were that simple.
I’m an optimist by nature so asking questions that focus on the negative is challenging for me and I suspect for many of you. If we’re honest, we pay much more attention to criticism than we do accolades. It’s all about the likes but we sure focus on the bad reviews and attacks on social media or the points that need improvement from our boss’s annual review.
When Jesus paid the price, once and for all, we no longer have to live for the likes or negate the criticisms. Our identity is secure in who God says we are. His Child, seen only through the lens of perfection in Jesus Christ. Washed by His blood, our eternity is secure.
The enemy is really good at focusing on the lies we believe and rubbing dirt in those wounds. Naturally, he reinforces what’s gone wrong and what’s not working in each of our lives.
Jesus is clear, “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.” (John 12:12-14 ESV)
When all we do and say are filtered through God’s influence in our lives, things may not go exactly as expected, but all is covered when we ask in His name. When we rely on His strength, not our own in setting things right.
And that’s the Memo.
Steve
