3 Steps to Be More Intentional

(This post is second in a series called #eveninthelittlethings. Week one is just a stone’s throw back here.)

The waves crashed onto shore, one after another. Time offered little opportunity for waste. Each move I made had to be calculated and accomplished with the speed of a gal on a mission.

Wave in (to the shore). Gal out (of the wave’s path).

Wave recoiling (back into the ocean), gal attempting the sand sprint toward the water while, under her breath, sputtering, Please glass, stay in the same spot. There’s one!

I quickly grabbed at the sand. A pile of light tan, heavier grains overflowed my palm. I could only hope the treasure was buried somewhere within it.

The sand grains here were larger and grainier than the type Florida’s beaches offered. They resembled small pebbles versus the light, floury texture often found in the Sunshine State. Regardless, grainier sand couldn’t prevent me from loving our three years of living in Hawaii nor this beach. And it certainly wasn’t going to stop me from sea glass hunting.

Finding sea glass was a mix of sport and curiosity. I loved anticipating the treasure that awaited with each day’s hunt. The colors, the shapes, they varied by the day. The spirit of suspense kept me coming back time after time.

At this particular beach, however, it was imperative to have a plan and be intentional. Without either, failure was likely. The waves crashed onto shore with little lull between their recess. Seconds counted.

I stood at the shore, eyeballing the proposed treasure area, preparing to fine-tune my focus on one, small, tumbling piece of glass. Like an eagle following a mouse from far above, I readied to swoop down and gather my prey. At the moment the water began to recede, I went in for the kill.

The strength of the water’s current often stole treasure from my clutch, so a ladylike grab never sufficed. An intentional fist-digging, hand-grasping, sand-under-the-nails, rocketing-like-an-eagle effort was a must. Somewhere in the resultant pile of sand was, hopefully, a gem of blue, green, amber, red, or orange sea glass treasure.

Yes, sea glass.

Yes, a small, tossed, edges smoothed, frosty appearance, itty bitty, tiny piece of sea glass.

Although small, every find was precious.

And although we have “little things”, those seemingly small decisions, hurdles, and frustrations in our day-to-day life, I believe there is spiritual treasure when we release them to Jesus. Just as sea glass hunters must be intentional when waves are diligent, we are well-advised to be diligent with the “small things” as well.

Last week in this post we discussed a marker as I introduced “little things”.

Today, we’re discussing being intentional with that “little thing” you noted.

God put his finger on one little area, the one He wants us to release control of. Now what?

Stare at it?

Hope it’ll go away?

Wish it away?

No, my friend. Like the hunt for sea glass, releasing even the little things is an intentional move. Here are three steps, based on 1 Peter 5:6-8, that will help with your intentional journey, even with the little things.

1. Humble yourself

Acknowledge that apart from Him you can do nothing. (John 15:5)

Trying to overcome the “little things” without the Lord’s strength is a mute point. It won’t work. God gives us vision and strength in the battle against control. He shows us things that are hanging out in our heart, beliefs we had no clue about, and lies that need to go.

2. Cast your cares

If you went pole fishing, but ceased to cast your hook, how would you catch fish? You wouldn’t. Fishermen are intentional about casting their hook. Likewise, cast your prayers and communication with God, even with the little things. Be intentional in prayer, asking for guidance and strength. Be willing to repent when hiccups occur, because that’s life. Hiccups happen. That’s, thankfully, why we have Jesus.

3. Be alert

The “little things” attempt to slide in without our realization. Let someone know you’re in a battle for control. Find an accountability partner, someone who will come alongside you daily, weekly, or on a regular basis. Whether they are next door or attached via technology, your friend’s prayers, reminders, check-ins, and encouragement can be influential in your success.

Also, continue to press into God’s truth. Whether it’s a daily study or a scripture specific to your situation, continue to hone and use your sword. (Eph. 6:17, Heb. 4:12)

Bonus Point: Remember that God cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)

Even in the little things, He cares.

Connecting with Holly Barrett, Crystal Storms, Kelly Balarie, Jennifer Dukes Lee, and Holley Gerth