A day without any regrets, that’s what we all want, right? I want a day in which I can know I did my absolute best for Him in all opportunities and circumstances. If I’m honest, that feeling doesn’t happen very often.
First, I’m an imperfect human (Duh!). I sin, I lose focus, I fall short. Isn’t that what the Christian walk is all about? We’re daily striving to bring more glory to God, to grow closer to Him, and become more like Christ. So, I’m not aspiring for perfection. I’m aspiring for a day that’s regret free and better than yesterday.
Second, I get so caught up in the day’s tasks that serving God can feel separate from my schedule. Going to the grocery store is only about getting in and out, not possibly meeting someone whom I might could help in some way or striking up conversation that could lead to a soul being saved some day. Getting caught up in a to-do list, while “productive,” often keeps me from ceasing the eternal moments amidst temporal tasks.
Regardless of what keeps us from living our best Christian life, we all want to make everyday our best day yet, and we certainly all want to know that, at the end of the day, we glorified God to the very best of our ability. To help us accomplish this, I’ve put together a list of sure-fire ways to spiritually improve each day ahead…
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Say the Good things – Prov. 16:24, 25:11,10:21; Heb. 10:24
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Say I love you – Be eager to express care for family, friends, fellow Christians.
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Verbalize compliments – When you think something positive about someone. SAY IT. When they do something good, ACKNOWLEDGE IT.
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Express blessings – When you’re enjoying the weather, comment in gratitude. When something good (small or big) happens, speak the joy aloud
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2. Don’t Say the Bad Things – (Psalm 19:14)
1. Criticisms – We notice each others’ flaws. But Christ responded to them with love (Rom. 5:8). Don’t allow critical thoughts to find a place in your mind. As soon as they come, replace them with prayer or something positive about the person.
2. Judgments – It’s easy to make instant assumptions about people, but this affects the way we treat them. With every person you see today, let your only judgment be that they need Jesus as much as you do. (1 Cor. 1:26-30)
3. Complaints – Negativity is a dangerous habit. Our words determine our mood, relationships, and influence (Ja. 3:1-12). So, don’t speak death today, speak life (Prov. 18:21).
3. Smile at Least Every 10 Minutes – A smile is an outward expression of what’s in our hearts. If we’re fully focused on God’s salvation and guidance today, we should smile about it! It brightens the day for you and all who see you. (Prov. 15:30, 17:22,15:13)
4. Soak in the Scenery – (Psalm 8)
Go for a walk with your family. Admire the crisp fall air and colorful leaves in the breeze during your drive time. Focus on God’s infinite power, love for beauty, and care for creation. Don’t forget to thank Him!
5. Turn Thought to Prayer – (Mat. 5:44, 26:41; Psalm 145:18-19)
When our thoughts run wild, we have to reign them in. When other people are on your mind, pray for their soul. When thinking of your own life, offer thanksgiving or ask for wisdom. When it’s trivial, turn it into praise. When it’s sinful, ask for forgiveness and turn your thoughts to blessings. Don’t let your brain power go to waste. Use every thought to grow in Him (Phil. 4:6-8).
6. Fill Up on the Word – (Psalm 119:12-16, 37:31, 18:30; 2 Tim. 3:16-17, 2:15; 1 Pet. 3:15)
Each day will be filled with whatever we allow to fill it. We have to fight for our time in the Word. It won’t choose me, I must choose it. 1f at all possible, begin and end your day with prayer and Bible study. This keeps His Word on your mind throughout the day and allows you to reflect on your day at night. A key to having our best day of walking with Christ is hiding His words in our hearts.
7. Fill the Need – (Mat. 25:34-40)
All around us, we see people with less (physically and spiritually) than we have. Jesus, in Matthew 25, says our own salvation is tied to the way we respond. Today, no matter the inconvenience, let’s go out of our way to help. Although it often seems like we don’t have the time or means, we will never regret being His hands and feet to another soul. Remember the real goal is to hear “well done” in eternity, not finish our earthly to-do list.
8. Count Your Blessings – (Ps. 100:4-5; Eph. 2:8; 1 Cor. 4:7-12; Mat. 6:25:-34)
It’s so easy to take our blessings for granted. But we don’t want to wait until something is lost to appreciate it. Actively consider every blessing today. Physical, spiritual, mental, emotional… in all respects we are abundantly blessed!
9. Cease EVERY Opportunity – (Col. 4:2-6; Eph. 5:15-16; 2 Tim. 1:4- 5)
The true purpose of a Christian on this earth is to save lost souls and encourage those already saved. Regardless of what our daily to-do list says, this has to be our focus at all times. Your job, your social circle, your family, your schedule all give you a unique realm of influence. Make and take every possible chance to speak of Jesus, His blessings, and His Church. Constantly be on the look out and eagerly take opportunities as they come because they likely won’t be there for another Christian to find.
10. Check on Someone – (Rom. 12:9-16; Phil. 2:5-11)
With busy days, it can be hard to find time for reaching out to others. There is such a long list of things we cram into the day that stopping to have an involved conversation often feels impossible. But this is one of the reasons people today feel isolated. Take the time to make someone else’s business your business. If they’re struggling, carry the burden with them (Gal. 6:2). If they have good news, rejoice with them.