Most of us don’t understand our potential, whether in our early or senior years. Our mindset isn’t open to achieving beyond our call to duty. We limit ourselves mentally. We are afraid to attempt something new or extraordinary. There’s a biblical pattern for doing more for God and ourselves. It’s found in 1Thessalonians 5, starting with verse 14.
The first directive is self-encouragement. You can do more, but you have to try. Certain things do not fall into your lap. There is initiative on your part, coupled with determination, effort, and patience to achieve.
With the above, there should be enjoyment. You must like what you’re trying to do or achieve to build the inner satisfaction that you are making a difference in your world. It may not be tangible, but someone or something will improve as a result of your efforts. That’s the inner joy of companionship, thanksgiving, and the privilege of knowing your prayers bring results.
When you examine your accomplishments, whether large or small, there’s a sense of pride. Be warned not to gloat but to savor the moment. Self-induced harm may occur from elation lasting too long. Or the failure to recognize those who helped along the way. None of us are independent of others.
The next thought is to keep going forward. There’s always more to do. More people to help, more ways to improve. God’s not finished with you until you breathe your last breath. Even then, you may do more by leaving a self-sustaining project. You can leave the means to help others after you arrive inside the pearly gates. That may not happen if you quit along the way. Your potential is unlimited with the proper mindset.
