Several years ago I was reflecting on what my “lids” or limits were to my potential and growth. I was talking to God about this and He clearly spoke to my heart and said, ”You are not consistent enough”. I wasn’t impressed. I thought I was pretty consistent, but God started to show me the areas I WASN’T consistent in.
My inconsistency was that I’d get all inspired about something and then run out of steam, or circumstances would highjack my good intentions and I wouldn’t get back to what I’d started out to do.
Fortunately when we have these “lids” in our life they don’t have to be permanent. We can, with God’s help “lift our lids.”
Over the last few years I have made the decision to be more consistent. One of those is in blogging every single day – 736 blogs to be exact, and what I have discovered is that when we make an effort and choice to be more consistent in one area of our life it starts to flow over to other areas of our life. Not only do I blog consistently, I now exercise regularly during the week; essentially going from a “couch potato” to a runner, being the fittest and healthiest I have ever been!
There is a phrase “IN CONSISTENCY LIES THE POWER”
Here’s why:
Consistency allows for measurement.
Until you have tried something new for a period of time and in a consistent manner, you can’t decide if it works or not. How do you measure effectiveness if what you are measuring isn’t performed consistently?
It’s often minor tweaking instead of major overhauls that make the difference.
Consistency creates accountability.
The simple fact is that if there is a set time to report on progress it is often the catalyst that moves an initiative to a successful end. Accountability motivates us.
Consistency establishes our reputation and makes us relevant.
We can’t establish a track record if we are constantly trying new tactics. Many efforts fail before they get to the finish line. The problem is often that we simply didn’t stay the course to achieve the objective. We need to give it some time.
Consistency highlights our message.
People pay as much, or more attention to what we do as to what we say. Our consistency serves as a model for how others will behave; our family, children, team at work, sporting group etc. If we treat something as unimportant, we shouldn’t be surprised when we find those around us doing the same.
When God draws our attention to something in our lives He just doesn’t leave us feeling like a failure. If we ask for His help He gives it. If we spend time with Him and in reading His Word He causes us to become more like Him; constant, dependable and consistent.
Ask yourself today, “what could I accomplish and what type of person could I grow to be in the next few years if I chose to be more consistent?”
Being consistent is a daily choice. It is a “Habit”, so be encouraged to cultivate the habit of doing successful activities consistently, and determine today to be more consistent. Start in just one area of your life and see the difference it makes. For “In consistency lies the power!”
“And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:4)
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9)
Prayer: Lord please help me to be honest about the “lids in my life” and to seek to be more consistent in pushing past any of my limitations so that I can grow to be all that you made me to be. Help me to cultivate the habit of doing successful activities consistently and to be more like you – constant, dependable and consistent. In Jesus name Amen.