Pursuit Of…Oneness

As mentioned in Monday’s post, our primary pursuit is our connection with God, followed closely by nurturing our relationship with our spouse or significant other. 

For the past seven years, I’ve utilized the One Word process each December to guide my journey toward self-improvement in the coming year.  Deb has also chosen a word for herself in previous years.

In the 41st year of our marriage, we’ve decided to embark on the One Word journey together, and “Oneness” will be our shared focus for 2024.  This, however, isn’t just a one-year commitment; it’s an enduring endeavor.

Oneness, defined as the state of being unified or whole, despite being comprised of two or more parts, is a concept often discussed in maintaining a vibrant connection with one’s spouse.

We recognize that even after four decades of marriage, intentional effort is crucial for sustaining growth, unity, and togetherness.

While a chosen word or intentional goal doesn’t guarantee success, it provides a clearer focus on what we aim to achieve and pursue. 

Deb and I eagerly anticipate the pursuit of “Oneness” in 2024 and beyond, one intentional day at a time.

**You can find the one word concept and process in the book “One Word That Will Change Your Life” by Jon Gordon, Dan Britton, and Jimmy Page.**

Questions To Ponder and Pursue

1.  Is there a word you want to pursue in 2024?

2.  Reflecting on the pursuit of “Oneness” mentioned in the writing, what strategies or practices can contribute to the growth, unity, and togetherness in your relationships?

What We Pursue First

2023. The year passed with various memories for you, hopefully predominantly positive, yet possibly marked by some challenges, some possibly self-inflcted. Often, those challenging single moments, whether self-inflicted or not, have the power to redirect you onto the necessary path.

The term “come to Jesus moment” is frequently used, but a genuine one can lead you to a pivotal decision — whether to continue on the broad road or redirect your steps towards a narrower one.

That narrow road, though sometimes lonely, can lead to a period of significant renewal, redemption, forgiveness, and a refreshed sense of freedom spiritually, mentally, and even physically.

The discovery of a renewed connection with a holy and loving Father leads you on a transformative journey. In moments of prayer, study and reflection, you can find a profound sense of peace and purpose.

Acknowledging and repenting for past transgressions becomes the key to fostering humility, seeking forgiveness, and striving for spiritual growth.

Each day, distancing from old habits strengthens your connection with God. The daily study of scripture provides solace and clarity in navigating your journey of redemption and renewal.

This newfound awareness deepens your commitment to a closer walk with the Lord, fostering gratitude and joy in the face of forgiveness.

Through this spiritual reawakening, a reminder emerges that grace serves as a guiding light, aiding in overcoming shortcomings and encouraging your pursuit of a transformative journey aligned with a divine and higher purpose.

Moment by moment, day by day, pursue God and live in his grace and mercy.

Questions

1. Did you have any “come to Jesus” moments in 2023?
a. Did you act on those moments for good or did you ignore them?

2. Is there anything you need to do, get rid of, or give over to Jesus, that will help you walk that narrow road?
a. Are you seeking the right things?

Just Fill The Ice Cube Trays

Each Friday, the six former Athletic Directors that work for BOUND do an episode in a professional development series called “Beyond BOUND”. After the person who is leading presents whatever they are presenting on that day we go around the horn with a few comments from everyone. 

This is the episode from today (1-12-24) where I tell a story about filling up some ice cube trays and the lessons we can learn from that. 

Just Fill The Ice Cube Trays

Welcome To “The Pursuit”

Welcome to a journey of purpose and growth in “The Pursuit” newsletter! Here, we delve into life’s most profound pursuits, commencing with our pursuit of God.

Every Monday and Thursday, join me as we explore leadership insights intertwined with scriptural reflections, fostering thoughts and moments of contemplation.

Throughout this journey, we’ll navigate the multifaceted pursuit of God, embracing and pursuing themes of redemption, renewal, reawakening, dreams, change, growth, moments, purpose, success, and strength.

Each post is a guide for introspection and inspiration, merging timeless wisdom with contemporary leadership principles.

Together, let’s embark on a path that transcends the ordinary – a pursuit that encompasses the essence of our existence.

Join me in discovering the richness of life’s pursuits, finding meaning, and unlocking the keys to leadership that resonate on a spiritual level.

Join me in “The Pursuit”.

Change

Today, I invite you to think about and embrace the wisdom of Heraclitus: 
“No man steps in a river twice.”

Life’s essence lies in perpetual change, an ever-flowing river of experiences.  Each moment is unique, never to be repeated.

Like a river, life may have twists, turns, and unexpected currents.  Instead of resisting, learn to flow with the stream of change.

Embracing new challenges and opportunities is the key to growth.  Just as a river shapes its path, let life shape you. 

Every encounter, every obstacle, is a chance to evolve.  Don’t cling to the past; let it be the foundation for a stronger future.

As you navigate the river of life, remember that every step forward is a step into uncharted waters. 

Embrace change, adapt, and let the current carry you towards new horizons.  Life’s beauty lies in its ever-changing nature; find strength in the flow.

I’m cheering for you.