14 Steps To A Perfect Life

When I was first engaged, I asked a pastor at my church to recommend some good pre-marital books I could be reading.  He said there aren’t any!  He said most books are giving you 10 steps to eliminate mess in your marriage and the reality is that marriage is messy!  We can’t eliminate it, but need to learn how to live in and with it. 

SO GOOD! 

Best words I’ve ever heard and I’ve tried to apply them to every area of my life.

 Recently, my neighbor asked me if I’m enjoying a magazine that I was gifted.  I told her that I’m sick of “10 ways to simplify your life.  20 things you can do today to organize your closet.  35 things to do to make your child eat their vegetables.  9 simple steps to clean your house.  15 ways to have perfect children now.  8 steps to eternal happiness without leaving your home.  98 meal ideas that will take the stress out of nightly cooking.  12 simple things to achieve perfection in your life!” 

PLEASE STOP ME!

Seriously?  Why am I drawn to the catchy title and “quick and easy” fix to the mess that is marriage and motherhood?  I want that magic formula to ease the mess, make life easier, and bring me a little happiness.  It's like chasing the wind - you can never really catch it.  The truth is, there is no way to get rid of the mess – but there is a way to learn to live and thrive in it.  I can waste many hours of my life reading 157 steps to making my life better and come up frustrated and empty handed time and again.  But if I take that same time and energy to just sit at the feet of Jesus everyday, I mean seriously sit with Him and let Him direct my time, my day, my steps… then it’s amazing how fulfilling life can be in the midst of a messy closet, chaotic house, and not so perfect children! 

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Matthew 6:32-34

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is —his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Romans 12:2

Read another phenomenal word yesterday in my ever favorite Jesus Calling. “Much frustration and failure result from your seeking perfection in this life.  There is nothing perfect in this world except Me.  That is why closeness to Me satisfies deep yearnings and fills you with Joy.”

Go stand in the midst of your messy closet, your child's messy room, your kitchen floor covered with crumbs, toys and chud - and thank God for the gift a full life!

Sit at His feet and ask Him to order your steps.