Living Intentionally

Living Intentionally
​by: Mrs. Ashley Cox Robinson (Dream Team: Baptism)

Annika Sörenstam is a retired Swedish professional golfer who is regarded as the best female golfer in history. Before retiring at age 38, Annika won 89 international tournaments as a professional, making her the greatest female golfer of all-time. Throughout her career, Annika set some of the highest standards in the history of the women’s game! Everything Annika did as a professional golfer was for a purpose and that purpose was to be the best. 

Annika lived with intentionality. Annika did not wake-up one day and decide to be the best at her sport. She intentionally lived each day with one goal in mind. She achieved this goal and will forever be remembered in the world of golf. 

Will you be remembered after your time on this earth comes to an end? 
Living intentional isn’t easy, in fact, it’s very difficult. Living intentionally requires daily discipline and focus to not fall into the trap of mediocrity. 
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Like Annika, I also play the game of golf. I have never been and will never be as accomplished as Annika, but golf has also taught me the valuable lesson of intentionality. Golf teaches to practice every day with a purpose and to give each shot your undivided attention. As an adult, I strive to live with the same intentionality I had as a competitive golfer. Intentional in my walk with Christ, my role as a wife to my husband, a daughter, sister and friend. 

Living with intentionality is not just for the world’s greatest athletes, leaders or missionaries. Living with intentionality should be a large focus in all our lives, especially we as Christ followers. 

As we start a new year, it provides a time to reflect and refocus. What could you be more intentional about in 2018? Could you intentionally strengthen your walk with God daily by reading more of His word or spending more time in prayer? How about your relationship with others or your health? 

In Daniel 6, we read about Daniels intentional decision to stop, drop and pray three times every day. (Daniel 6:10) Daniel knew this could cost him his life, yet he did it anyway! You see, King Darius had signed a law stating that no one could pray to anyone or anything, other than him. Daniel refused to obey this law and betray his God, so he continued to pray. Daniel was later rewarded for the discipline and determination he showed towards his heavenly father. Daniel lived his life intentionally!
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ACTION: As we begin this new year, I encourage you to spend time in prayer discovering what it is you should be intentional about in your life today and for the remainder of this year. Do not let this year happen without defining your focus. History makers are not always wealthy, famous or immensely talented. History makers are people like you and I. History makers are mechanics, teachers, entrepreneurs and assembly line workers. The daily occupation of a history maker is indifferent; however, the level of determination and focus is imperative! 

PRAYER: Say this prayer today and stay focused on what will make the most impact in your life…Father, I ask you to give me wisdom throughout my time of prayer and fasting to know what it is you would have me focus on for this year. Help me to live a life that is intentional! I want to be a difference maker for you and my family. In Jesus' Name, Amen.