Owning Your Journey
Making excuses is so much simpler than owning responsibility for our actions and decisions. Or is it? The truth is, in the immediate it feels simpler, but over time those excuses pile up and become obstacles we have to overcome.
Taking responsibility for our actions, decisions, and our journey with God today will give us a better tomorrow. The decisions we make today, no matter how small they might seem, determine the direction and quality of our lives.
Be Honest About Yourself
In Galatians 6, Paul tells us, "Don't pretend to be something you're not. Be honest with yourself. Each person should look at what they do, and then they can be proud of themselves, not comparing themselves with someone else."
This means we should be truthful about who we are and not try to act like someone we're not. Paul says we should look at our own actions and be proud of what we do, instead of always looking at what others are doing. This runs in the face of popular wisdom, which tells us to “fake it till you make it.”
The easiest person to deceive is the person in the mirror. There is probably no one who has lied to you more than you. To really take ownership of your journey you have to be honest with yourself. You can not live into your purpose if you refuse to acknowledge the inner challenges and fears that are holding you back.
Taking Responsibility for Your Actions
We all make mistakes. Taking responsibility means admitting when we're wrong and saying sorry. It’s like when you accidentally hurt your partner’s feelings - instead of making excuses and casting blame on him/her, own up to your mistake and take active steps to not make the same mistake again. When we own up to our actions, we learn and become better people.
Whether it's admitting a mistake, seeking forgiveness, or making amends, owning our actions empowers us to grow into a better future.
Taking Responsibility for Your Choices
Your decisions determine the direction and quality of your life and impact the lives of loved ones around you (Romans 14:12-13). It’s an easy lie to tell yourself that your choices only impact you. Imagine being forced to make the decision at work to be dishonest in order to receive a promotion. If you compromise your integrity, you might achieve short-term success, but the long-term consequences could be severe. The impact of your choices will also extend beyond your own life. Your decision affects coworkers who depend on a fair and just work environment, as well as the reputation of the company as a whole. The choices you make impact everyone around you, especially those who love you. If and when your dishonest actions at work come to light, they can have an emotional and financial impact on your family. Even if you are never discovered, you have compromised your integrity. When you carry a lie, the longer you carry it the more it changes who you are and the easier it becomes to lie, not just to coworkers but also to your family, friends, and even yourself.
Taking Responsibility for Your Faith Journey
Owning our journey extends to our spiritual lives. In the pursuit of a deeper connection with God, we must actively engage with our faith. This involves regular prayer, reading the Bible, and participating in a community of believers. There isn’t a special formula or a certain amount where you can just check the box. Like any relationship, your connection with God is dependent on spending time getting to know one another.
Owning our spiritual journey means recognizing that we are co-laborers with God in the ongoing process of transformation. It involves a commitment to continuous learning, seeking His guidance, and allowing the Holy Spirit to work within us.
Taking ownership of our journey is about being truthful, saying sorry when we mess up, making good choices, and being a good friend to God. When you do this you will be one step closer to the person God created you to be - the version God knows you should be!
Centerpoint is ready to walk with you on your faith journey.
At Centerpoint, we know that in today’s culture, living an authentic life can be a challenge. Check out our recent series, Living with Yourself, where we offer practical advice and strategies for creating an honest and authentic life. We also invite you to be part of our vibrant and diverse community in Valrico, Florida, part of the greater Tampa Bay area. Preview one of our services, streaming live at 11am EST every Sunday, or simply join us on a Sunday morning.