Taking The Next Step

Recently I had the opportunity to address a group of writers about the importance of blogging and how to get started. The subject of this post is not about getting started in blogging but about getting started in anything.

For me this is the key: Take the Next Step.

Of course, taking the next step implies taking the first step. Many people never conclude a project because they never begin. Something always comes up to keep them from getting started. Only when you are willing to begin will you end.

For years I worked with students toiling to receive a Doctor of Philosophy degree. They were all bright and all talented. In addition, they all loved God and wanted to follow Him with their lives. They all exhibited a call to Christian ministry. Any of the readers of this blog across the country and around the world would be impressed with these folks.

As I worked with those students I was always amazed at those who could complete everything but the dissertation. The biggest problem with completing the dissertation (apart from money or family responsibility) had to do with getting started. Once a student started, they usually finished. Getting started was the key.

In order to finish a big project, you must simply move from one step to the next. I have noticed that once you complete a step, the next step becomes readily apparent.

It works in almost every situation and every endeavor. I think of taking the next step when I read Paul’s words to the Colossians: “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

This is similar to the admonition of the Preacher: “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might” (Ecclesiastes 9:10).

The other thing I have noticed is how much you can accomplish if you take the next step (whatever your hand finds to do).

God has great work for us to accomplish. Let us not be weary in doing well. Let us take the next step to accomplish those goals God has given us.

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9 Responses

  1. Tomorrow is the monthly anniversary of Mother’s passing 29 December 2012 in Covington, LA. I am thankful for the Hospice care and Doctors who guided me through the difficult process. In some way we are all Hospice care givers and receivers of Hospice. As Dad shared, “you can’t understand now, but someday, someday you will.” His encouragement to live, to continue, not to forget why we have the Blessings/opportunities we have, to be thankful yet not expectant, not to be “an educated moron.”

    There is a promise in Scripture for the Members of His Body who trust in HIm. As one is doing with all ones might, it is His Might that will carry the work to His Objective. As I was recently reminded, at the conclusion of the Faith Chapter, Hebrews 11 we are introduced to the reason for the “Call to Endurance.”

    It has been my privilege to give you and yours an opportunity to witness what God has done in one life and how He continues to present opportunities for the Bride to realize Her obligation, or at least identify Herself. Nothing has been accomplished “Worthy” without the dedication of at least one; and nothing has lasted more than a lifetime without the dedicated recognition of others. To this fact “I bear witness.”

    Thank you for the editing of my comments, quickly made most mornings, and occasionally realized when reviewed later seeing the comments of others and finding my typos or omitted words, etc. Time is a precious commodity. I am grateful for what God has done through you and Hope for His Kingdom knowing: it is not easy, the sands continue to fall.

    Blessings

  2. Several years ago I had to look for someone to help with my lawn care and this young man that went to the same church I do, needed work and he gave me one of his cards with the Col 3:2,3 scripture on it. He has been working for me for several year now and he truly works by that scripture. He finishes any job I ask him to do with perfection and I think he lives his life for Jesus. Thank you, for this blog and all your blogs.

    1. I certainly agree. That’s why emphasizing the next step–however small–really matters. I also do my best to ask God for His leadership and to show what that next step may be.
      May God bless you as you seek to discover His will.

  3. If you go into the private room in your heart with God and discover that the next step will require the participation of His Bride, you may have to wait awhile or a lifetime. Keep working, remembering Who you serve.
    Blessings

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