I make lists. I am a list maker. I need a list to accomplish tasks that are important in my life. I keep my list in a 9 x 6 inch spiral notebook. The list is rewritten about every two weeks…every week if need be. My weekend tasks to prepare for the workweek are critical to my peace; between commute and work, I leave home for about 10-1/2 hours a day with little time for tasks other than activities of daily living.
There are actually three parts to my list: The first is the tasks that must be accomplished to have food for the week and clean clothes to wear. The second is the actual grocery/shopping list that gets everything from store to door to provide the foods I need to keep a balanced diet and have the supplies for the treatment of chronic illness. The third is the long term, I need to do this, maybe I’ll get something done on it today kind of thing. It currently includes a rewrite of my novelette, trying to have a significant conversation with a friend who is homebound at the moment, sorting some things that are stored and need prioritized, etc.
I feel I’ve accomplished something if my list of ‘absolutely needs to be done’ tasks gets completed on the weekend. It makes my week so much easier. I added something new recently; I sort my supplements into a daily medication device, a.m. and p.m., and now I only open the large containers once a week instead of every day. Due to diet restrictions, they are critical to my health and my doctor agrees.
The most important part of making a list for me is asking God to give me His wisdom for my life. He’s pared down the time I spend away from home on the weekend to give me the rest I need and to make necessary preparations for the week to come. He’s made what used to be important parts of my life impossible; I practice hospitality differently now than I did several years ago. Time with Him is spent differently too; when I worked at home I spent time before work in my easy chair seeking His face. Now that seeking tends to be in my vehicle and He is faithful to meet me there or anywhere I can snatch time with Him.
I’ve realized in the past few weeks that it’s time to review my life goals and dreams. I look forward to doing that this year, and the list will reflect those future plans, again with His wisdom as my guiding light.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.
Amplified Bible (AMP)
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