In his book, Intentional Living, author John Maxwell shares that back in 1976 he received a gift from his assistant. As he unwrapped the gift, he saw that it was a book titled, The Greatest Story Ever Told. He couldn’t wait to read it.
But when he opened the book, he was shocked to see that the pages were blank. Inside the book was a note that said, “John, your life is before you. Fill these pages with kind acts, good thoughts and matters of your heart. Write a great story with your life.” This excited him, the thought of writing the story of his life.
Every day we live out our story through our words, actions and decisions. But we must remember to live with intent, to focus on what matters most in life and to regain that focus when we get sidetracked. Without intent, we can become distracted in matters that don’t add to a life of significance and difference in our world.
Life isn’t perfect nor is it always easy, so we need reminders along the way from a friend, author, blogger, pastor or our inner spirit to re-focus us on the things that matter and makes us come alive.
Read More: Inspiring Billy Graham Quotes
Recently I attended the funeral for one of the elders of my home church. Her son said, “My mom always visited the elderly and sick. Even while sick at the age of 89, she would call people to see how they were doing.”
And when I was viewing online a service for a New York Police Department chaplain, a past colleague of his mentioned how the chaplain called him for several weeks to see how he was doing after retiring. These people live with intent on making their lives matter to others and for God.
Remember, no tomorrow is ever guaranteed. What would you do differently if your doctor told you that you only had a year left to live? What would matter most? We should not wait for these words to be said, but instead live each day with purpose and passion for a life of significance.
Lord, teach us to be intentional with our life through our words, actions, thoughts and love.
