A Small Change in
Trajectory
July 14, 2003
Suppose an out of shape and overweight man
approached a personal trainer and said, "I want to get in
shape." He showed the trainer a picture of what he wanted his
body to look like--washboard abs, steel pecks, and biceps like
giant hogs wrestling in sausage casings.
Would the personal trainer tell him, "Tomorrow I
want you to run seven miles and work out with weights for an
hour?" Of course not! He would provide him with a light work
out. Over time the exercise routine would expand. If he
faithfully followed the regimen his body would begin to resemble
the picture.
Similarly, if you want to look like Jesus, you
must work-out. You must discipline yourself. If you want to grow
spiritually, commit to those daily spiritual disciplines you
know you can keep. Psychologists have learned that after someone
has done something for 21 consecutive days it's a habit. Once
you've developed a habit you can expand on it.
As Mighty Men we've committed to daily:
1. Spend 3-5 minutes in the Word.
2. Spend 3-5 minutes in prayer.
3. Tell our families we love them. Of if you're single, express
love and appreciation to those close to you.
4. Maintain sexual purity.
I like to remind men that a small change in their
behavior will radically transform their life. Suppose a plane
departs from Los Angeles heading east. If the pilot makes a 1%
change in the trajectory of the plane it will be in a very
different place three hours later. Similarly, a small change in
the trajectory of your life will put you in a better place in
one year.
That's why it's so crucial for you start with
spiritual disciplines you know you can keep. As you meet with
God each day, you will experience his presence and power in a
fresh way. As the psalmist said, you will, "Taste and see that
the LORD is good" (Psalm 34:8). As you experience the goodness
of God you will desire to spend more time with him. You will
crave his word and celebrate the way he uses it to change your
life.
I know how easy it would be to read these words
and just delete them or move on with the rest of your day. But
don't do that. Pause a few minutes and examine your life. How
are you doing with the daily disciplines? Are you growing closer
to the Lord and your family each day? If no, make that 1% change
in the trajectory of your life right now. In three months you'll
be glad you did. If you're on course, keep it up--and encourage
a friend in his walk with the Lord.
We're all involved in the battle for our heart and
that of our family. And we can only win it in God's power, one
day at a time.
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