One thing I am learning in this Pathway to Organization is that each day is usually totally different from another.  We may get “really organized” in one area only to see another one fall apart!  That’s why I love the word “flexible”!

We strive for balance in our lives:  eat the right foods, do the right exercises, find a hobby, keep our house in order, floss your teeth, etc.  But I’m beginning to learn that when I work on being flexible in my life, I’m much less stressed.  I am able to stop what I’m doing to answer the phone and talk to someone who needs me.  I can change my schedule to insure that I get to the grocery store in time to cook my husband a good meal.  I can substitute one activity for another, even if I want to do both.

I’m realizing that if I can be flexible and allow God to run my calendar, I have so much more peace and joy in my life.

He really should be the one leading us in our schedules.  And if we really believe that, I feel that we won’t get so stressed when we get that flat tire or the baby gets sick as you are walking out the door or the money didn’t come in for that house repair.

I know many of you are struggling with all the demands in your life.  Perhaps, when you go to the Lord in prayer you will find that you can stop some of those demands.  Ask Him for help with your calendar.  And remember to be flexible!

Action Plan

1. Planning activities are important such as taking the children to the zoo on Monday, yoga for you on Tuesday and cleaning out the closet on Wednesday.  But, keep an open mind if Monday turns out rainy and the only day to take them is Wednesday!  By being flexible, change of events won’t get you stressed or angry.

2. Think about your priorities.  “Doing it all” is a myth!  In reality, we all have to make choices about how we spend our time and what things are most important to us.  By reviewing your priorities, you’ll drop those things that aren’t worth sacrificing for and keep those that are.

3. Go with the flow.  Just like learning to ride a bike, where you had to shift your weight so as not to fall, life requires the same constant adjustment.  We need routines and systems to keep us organized but we need to be flexible when the unexpected happens and our schedule is blown away.  You can’t always control what happens to you, but as Christians we need to control our reaction and outlook.

Manna from Heaven

“And which of you by being anxious can add a single cubit to his life’s span?  And why are you anxious about clothing?  Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin.  Therefore do not be anxious for tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself.  Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

Matthew 6: 27-28, 34