Kindergarten Principle #1: Better Isn't Easier

Am I the only one that frequently finds herself re-learning the most simple things over and over? Despite nearing a quarter of a century of life, I often still feel like a young inexperienced child trying to be an adult. Lately I keep coming across the fact that I have a daily decision to choose "good enough" or "the best" in so many areas and details of life. Saying that I want "the best" for my family, for my son, for myself requires more work than I care to do most of the time and I find myself complaining or lamenting the effort I have to make to have "the best". But isn't that a childish attitude?

The other night I presenced my 6-year-old cousin elaborate one of the most dramatic bedtime scenes I have ever seen as she wailed and sobbed about how tired she was. The more my aunt told her to put on her pj's, brush her teeth and go to the bathroom quickly so she could get in bed, the louder she wailed, not accomplishing anything. How illogical of me to do just that: complain or try to avoid the effort that it costs to have "the best". But even worse, to me, is settling for "good enough" or any other excuse.

It becomes such an easy habit to settle for less... like reaching for the disposable diaper rather than using and washing the cloth one. Like making a quick unhealthy meal rather than learning to cook a healthy meal from scratch. Like accepting the fact that young moms are too busy to pray rather than making time for God and trusting He will make enough time for everything else. Like giving in to cheap tempting things I want rather than diligently saving for good quality things I need. Like leaving chores for later rather than getting them done so I can have time for all the things I keep wishing I could do. Like wasting resources and ignoring the facts rather than being informed and adjusting my lifestyle. Like just reading trough the Bible rather than applying what I read.

So many habits to undo and new habits to create...but most of all, I'm amazed at the frequency with which I forget that as much as I try and plan and work, nothing will work if I don't take it to the Lord first. Who am I kidding? "Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:33)