“If at first you don't succeed, try, try again.”
This famous line came to mind, as I prayed about what to write to encourage you as we begin a new year.
Google attributed the quote to several sources. However, the first one I read, surprised and dismayed me. W.C. Fields, famous for using this line, added to it: “...Then quit. No use being a damn fool about it,”
Mr. Fields, I don’t agree with you!
In fact, I would add: Do Not Quit! Keep on Trying! Keep Up Your Momentum! Continue to Move Forward!
As 2014 arrives, I am making goals to move forward in the days, weeks and months ahead.
Many of these goals are the same ones I wrote down last year, and the year before, and even the year before that.
One goal I set for 2011 was to memorize Psalm 119. Here it is two years later, and it is on my list once again.
For years, I have wanted to memorize this long Psalm. But, 176 verses seemed daunting. That is a lot of verses to memorize. So, I remained content to read it now and again, and to cling to the familiar passages.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
“I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.”
“How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word.”
On December 31, 2011, I finally decided to go for it. I made a plan and intended to finish it in one year. 365 days.
Now, here it is, December 31, 2013, and I am only halfway there. As of today, I have memorized exactly 88 verses. This means, I have had to recalculate my plan. If I will memorize one and a half verses each week, I can finish by the end of 2014.
Am I tempted to quit? Absolutely not! Long ago, I discovered memorizing God’s Word is one of the richest disciplines of my life. Especially, when I take the time to get each passage of scripture deep in my heart. I have learned slow and steady is definitely better than speedy and sloppy.
I am happy to report I accomplished a few of my 2013 goals. My new resolutions for 2014 are now written down. There are some oldies, along with a few newbies.
This year, I am determined to finish memorizing Psalm 119. I have eighty-eight verses down, with eighty-eight to go!
Once again, I choose to move forward in my perpetual goal to eat healthy, exercise regularly, and to get down to a healthy weight!
Plus, I added a new one, (but actually a really, really old one), to write a book, maybe even two or three.
How about you, dear friend? Are you moving forward? Is there an area in your life where you have stalled?
I urge you, Please Do Not Quit! Take a Step forward! Keep Your Momentum Up! Ask the Lord what plans you can make and the steps you can take to thrive and grow in the days, months and years ahead!
I would love to hear from you. Please leave a comment, and remember, dear ones,“If at first you don’t succeed. Try, try again!”
