Intentional
By Lexi Cole Ellis
“…Always give yourselves fully to the work of the
Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
1 Corinthians 15:58b (NIV)
1 Corinthians 15:58b (NIV)
A couple of summers ago, my friend and I were at our
husbands’ softball game. I had brought the puppy since we were intentionally practicing
a skill with him. After a long day with him, I was working on not being
frustrated and continued to do our training. My friend looked at me and said,
“I’m impressed with how intentional you guys are with Calvin and his training.
Keep it up; you’re doing a great job.”
It was what I desperately needed to hear. But I realized it
wasn’t just Calvin; every sphere in my life puts intentionality at a high
importance. A teacher…wife…friend…sister and daughter…ministry volunteer and
leader…coworker. And - - similar to
occasionally feeling tired at the intentionality that’s required with being a
“puppy parent” - - there are times I’m exhausted
with the amount of work and intentionality needed in my other roles.
Take a moment to look at some of the spheres in your life
where you’re intentional in spiritual development. My response is similar to my friend’s comment:
Keep it up! You’re doing a good job! The tireless, spiritual intentionality you
invest in your relationships, your marriage, your kids, your job, your ministry
is worth it when it’s done with a heart of humility. The diligence you bring to
those roles is God-honoring. He sees:
·
the way you have continually prayed for open doors with a
coworker.
·
the patience you have as you constantly work every day to be the
faith-trainer in your child’s life and the really hard diligence you pursue to
develop your child’s spiritual, emotional and social formation.
·
the loving respect you choose to have for your husband.
·
the kind words you choose to express to a family member or
friend…even when it’s hard.
·
the overflow you expend by volunteering your time and talent to
the Church.
Thank you for your intentionality and being willing to be
in it for the long haul. It’s worth it, despite the days it feels overwhelming,
futile and frustrating. Luckily, we have a God who knows that intentionality
can often bring tiredness and frustration, and He has given believers His
Spirit, His Word and His offer to come to Him when we’re weary (Matthew 11:28-30).
I’m thankful my friend noticed our intentionality when I
was frustrated and encouraged me to keep it up. Thank YOU for the
intentionality you’re choosing every day in your relationships. Keep it up…keep
being intentional in pointing others to Him. I promise it’s worth it!
GOING DEEPER:
1.
How are you choosing to be intentional in spiritual development
in your relationships?
FURTHER READING:
Lexi and her husband, Andrew, have an adorable dog named Calvin.
Lexi teaches sixth grade Reading and Writing. She serves with Children’s
Ministries and is the Fresh Start Coordinator.
