We often set big spiritual goals to walk like, talk like and be just like Jesus. Some of us vow to never think, feel, say or do certain things because they never want to turn back into the sinner they once were. People make goals to read the Bible in a year, once a day, pray for every meal and for everybody they know. As I write this blog, I know that I have set some lofty spiritual goals for myself, and lately, little by little, I have been backing away from them. For example, I have made the choice to embrace a lifestyle of healthier eating and exercise. But it is easy not to workout! I knew that before I set this goal for myself. Everyday I get further away from doing the things that I know God wants me to do. So how do I get back on the right track with God, and stop moonwalking away from what He wants from me?
The Apostle Paul understands how I feel. He puts it best when he confesses:
I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.
Romans 7:15
I know working out gives me energy, helps me sleep better, helps my mood and get me into all my favorite clothes. I actually enjoy doing it. So why is it so hard to maintain a schedule? We know that the goals we set are there to make us better people, but we let life get in the way. We succumb to laziness, procrastination, excuses, busy schedules and everything in between that stops of from being motivated. I know I try hard, so I know you try hard too.
Some people call this phenomenon “backslidding,” which reminds me of a person who is climbing a mountain and keeps falling due to the difficulty. Following God can feel like that, but I am calling this issue moonwalking because I want to talk to people who are not so far away from their relationship with God, and can get back with a few steps. Always remember that without daily interaction with God, it will be easy for life and the enemy to infiltrate and get in your way.
It is surely easier to do bad things than good. It’s easier for me to get a double cheeseburger than prepare a salad for lunch everyday. It is easier to sit on the couch and watch TV than to move my feet and sweat. It’s easier to read a gossip magazine than to chew on the Bible. We work so much and do so many thing, we are in a constant state of wanting to relax. And honestly, sometimes studying the Bible and a serious prayer session with God is the last thing on our list of things to do.
I am trying to remember that real growth and results come from diligence and discipline. Yes, God gives us grace, but He also gives us knowledge and wisdom to accomplish the things we need to do. Life will never be too difficult to accomplish spiritual goals.
I will be meditating on Galatians 6:9 that says, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” If we hold tight to the things that God needs us to do, we will see the rewards of them. I know God wants to doing things for a reason, and slowly getting away from them just deters His work.
I know you have seen Michael Jackson do this infamous dance, just remember, as easy as it is for him to slide backwards, it is just that easy for him to turn around and moonwalk back in his original direction. As long as we don’t get too far away from the Word, we can make minor adjustments so that we can get back on track. As I write this for you, I write to motivate myself this week. Be strong, don’t faint and stop dancing away from the promises God has for you!
