Simplifying Your Life - Pt. 2

Many of us have heard that old aphorism, "It's not the destination, it's the journey."  How many of us, however, really know what it means?  On the surface it speaks vaguely of the importance of being present in the moment, rather than focusing solely on what comes next.  

But there's a deeper meaning to the aforementioned phrase--one that I believe eludes most of us.  I think this phrase speaks directly into the frail and finite ways that most of approach our goals in life.  We find ourselves longing for someday.  

"Someday," we tell ourselves, "I'll finally figure out my purpose in life."  
"Someday, I'll have enough money to do what I want."  
"Someday, I'll get that promotion... reach that milestone... find my dream job..."  
"Someday, I'll get healthy... get moving... do that thing I've always wanted to do..." 

Our longings for someday all too often become the very thing that keeps us from recognizing the importance of now.  I preached a sermon recently where I challenged people to turn their when into now.  It's a simple shift in your mindset, really.  

All that is required to begin focusing on the journey is to pause and take a look at where you are.  In that pause you can begin to recognize the importance of the journey, and that the path you "chose" was not entirely your doing.  That pause gives you the opportunity to be still for a moment and to recognize that there is a God, and you are not Him.  

Proverbs 19:21 offers this wisdom:  "Many are the plans in a human heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails."  

One of the easiest ways to simplify your life is to surrender your desires for the future.  This doesn't mean that we shouldn't dream.  We should dream.  We should dream big, audacious, out-of-reach dreams.  This doesn't mean that we shouldn't make plans.  We need to consider the cost of decisions, think and pray about decisions before making them.  

But when you relinquish your desires for the future in favor of God's desires... When you decide to be present in the journey, opening your eyes to see God at work around you, opening your ears to hear God's still, small voice in your ear... When you trust God with the future, and embrace the present... 

Your life gets simpler.  Your way becomes clearer.  Your focus is narrowed.  You enjoy the journey.  

May you discover the joy of your journey, as you simply surrender the future to the One who holds it.  May you simplify your life by embracing the present, and seek to align your desires with God's own.  And may the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you now and always. Amen.