Help Others

If you want to have a great life, help others. This morning I read an article in Time magazine concerning violence in Africa. Quite honestly, I don't like hearing about the unfortunate in other parts of the world. I usually turn off the news when local stations are reporting about thefts or violence in our area. I know it goes on, but since I can't do anything about it, I try to ignore it.
But to have a great life, a life filled with purpose and meaning, it is important we understand the plight of others and help out in small and big ways when we can. The plight of so many in Africa is tragic. Through sinful, corrupt governments thousands of people are taken advantage of, and, in some instances, abused and killed mercilessly. If we are going to have a great life, we must remember the plight of the poor and needy, and help those who are less fortunate than ourselves. Certainly all of us can pray for those in our comunity, and in other parts of the globe, who need shelter and food. We can pray that justice and righteousness would prevail. We can give to organizations such as City Union Mission and Samaritan's Purse which help those in need of spiritual and physical help. There may be a few of us who can be actively involved in these ministries, whether volunteering, serving on boards, or going to other parts of the world. Having this kind of perspective on the needy, certainly reminds us to thankful and content in what we have, rather than focusing on what we don't have. In our materialistic society, it's easy to get the "I want's," rather than thinking about and helping those who need a boost to get on with their lives. If you want to have a great life, help others.

Aim at Great Goals

If you want to have a great life, aim at great goals. As someone has said, "He who aims at nothing, hits it everytime."

Who do want to become in 2008? What do you want to accomlish this year? Right down some SMART goals which will challenge and encourage you.
S- Specific
M- Measurable
A- Attainable
R - Realistic
T- Timely

When you right down SMART goals, you often develop a plan to meet those goals.

Here are a few examples:

I want to become a better citizen by becoming an informed voter. Therefore, I will read at least one article on each candidate in my primary before I vote in my primary.

I want to lose 30 pounds by June 1. Therefore, I will weigh myself daily and workout in some fashion for at least 30 minutes, 4 times per week.

I want to grow spiritually. Therefore, I will attend Sunday School at least twice each month, attend worship at least 3 times each month, read at least one chapter in the New Testament five times each week, and spend at least 5 minutes in prayer each day.

I want to grow intellectually this year. Therefore, I will read at least one book each month, using time before bed as my reading time.

Remember, goals and plans are to be flexible. Our circumstances and desires may change as we go through life. But these will get us moving forward and help us having a great life. If you want to learn more about SMART goals you can visit http://www.topachievement.com/smart.html.