Last year I made some goals for my last year of my 30′s.  It was my year of The Better Beth.  I learned to run. I healed from some past hurts and began the process of forgiveness. I started yoga. I worked toward healing my mind and heart. I grew tremendously in my walk with God. By the time my 40th birthday came, I felt I had accomplished everything I set out to do last year. It felt good.

It also helped me realize 2 things: first, I can do anything I put my mind to and second, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Phil. 4:13) In my quest to complete these goals last year, I was spinning my wheels. I could never quite get there. I grew frustrated and overwhelmed at my inability to truly accomplish them to completion. I was missing a crucial detail: God. Once I surrendered all these things to him, the process began to flow seamlessly. By my birthday I was at peace and comfortable in my own skin.

This year, I again have some goals. Big ones. However, I’m not foolish enough to think I can do any of it on my own. I am encouraged that I’m not alone in my quest. God will continue to finish his good work in me to completion. I can rest in knowing that the things of my heart I wish to change and refine come from him and he will provide the way.

So what are my goals?

1. To really think before I speak. Is what I’m saying gossip? A complaint? Is it building someone up? Is it worth saying? I am not naturally a gossip, but I do tend to complain or have a bad attitude at times that my husband gets to hear as well as my children. It is my goal to really think hard before I speak. I want my words to be purposeful and edifying.

2. To significantly reduce the amount of technology I use during the day, like t.v., Internet, etc. Instead choosing activities that bring me closer to my kids, my friends, and better my life.

Those are my goals for this year. I’m sure I’ll fail at times, but I’m optimistic that with God’s help, I can accomplish them.

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