There is a concentrated movement to “enjoy the journey” and enjoy the moment, or the process that leads to an outcome.  If we lament the details, we will spend most of our life in complaint, worry, or not recognizing the benefits of growth.

I was working with my 10-year-old in a life lesson talk.  It started off pretty rocky, but once we settled in. and the Spirit took over, it became one of those life-changing moments–the details of life.  This talk erupted in the middle of a million things going on at once, but time stood still for this conversation.  I sat there trying to explain to her that life was filled with choices that have pros and cons.  We consider the choices and ask God to give us direction.  She desires to apply to a program, and we were reviewing the application and the requirements.  As we read the definition of the program, she sincerely looked into my eyes, and asked,

“What if I don’t feel like doing the project, but do it anyway, work hard, and get a good grade?”

We were in the middle of a school project on Atoms, protons, neutrons, and electrons.  This project became her life example.

She was at such a deep level of thinking.  I was trying to share with her that this program, if she were accepted, would be seeking students who show exceptional work ethic and a desire for learning. Tears came to my eyes as she asked this profound question.

“Oh sweet girl, that is called character.”

” We’ve been defining a program, but what you just asked defines amazing character.”

I began to explain that when we “do it anyway” with an attitude of “doing our best” regardless of how we feel, because God is calling us to do it, our boss has asked us to do it, or it’s a requirement for the reward, diploma, or grade, then we are building our character.

I can’t begin to tell you how profound and moving her comment was to me.  I guess it’s because a 10-year-old has a way of speaking your soul work.  God uses our children, and we grow from their God journey.

Sometimes we don’t enjoy the journey, and the details are agonizing.  It’s okay.  You don’t have to convince yourself or fake it.  What if, like my girl, we “do it anyway” and  work hard.  Feelings can’t be trusted–they are fickle.  Move forward without your feelings dictating your actions.

Pastor Stan shared on Sunday–“Finish the race!”  I was having a hard time convincing my feelings to finish certain tasks related to home, school, and work, but God’s Word reminded me to embrace my journey and finish the race. My ten-year-old reminded me to “do it anyway” and work hard.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.It is the Lord Christ you are serving.  Colossians 3:23-24