December 2024 - Date Time

"Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds." (Proverbs 27:23)

December is almost over. It's crazy how fast a year flies by, and even crazier how fast December seems to pass.  In Bible times, looking at the size of a man's herds was equivalent to looking at the amount of his assets. In other words, it's telling us to be diligent in knowing where we're at in our life, and where we're headed. So as we close out this month and head into the new year, let's take some time to consider the state of our flocks.

1. Make a date: Careful consideration and planning takes time, so set a date before the new year. Plan for at least an hour, and plan to make it fun. Get your planner/journal, a few pretty highlighters, a warm drink, and a cozy place. Make it special: maybe a comfy seat in front of a fire, a quiet table at the library, or a place at your local coffee shop. Whatever you decide on, make it something you'll look forward too and won't be tempted to throw over for a more exciting engagement. Think of it as a date with your future.

2. Don't forget your Counselor: Just as couples who want to last are sure to solicit older, wiser wisdom in their decision making, so those who want to make the right choices with their future seek to include God. "For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of His mouth cometh knowledge and understanding." (Proverbs 2:6) God desires to "give to all men liberally" the wisdom that they ask for, but He requires that they first ask, He won't force it on anyone. So as you plan your date, ask your Counselor to lend you His wisdom to help you make the right choices.

3. Get a second opinion: "Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety." (Proverbs 11:14) "Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established." (Proverbs 15:22) Get a second opinion both before and after making your goals: First, get an opinion on what goals you should consider adding to your list. Second, get an opinion on the goals you have chosen. And remember, just like their Saviour, a godly leader is not going to force their opinion on you, you will need to ask. "Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out." (Proverbs 20:5) 

Now go enjoy your date. Planning doesn't have to be torture. Find what works best for you, and go have fun. Just as some couples would enjoy sitting in the living room watching a movie together, while others prefer jumping out of an airplane, your method of planning your New Years goals might look vastly different from your best friend's. So find out what works for you, set a date, and go have a blast.

"Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds." (Proverbs 27:23)