The Next Right Step

I love breaking things down into small chunks, doing things one step at a time.  It is easier to think of writing for five minutes than reserving an hour for a task that may seem impossible.

I have a bookmark in every book, so when we open the book we know right where we left off and can launch from there.  It is freeing to know that we are making progress, and not so much confined to a checklist.

In our family, we have used this method over and over again.  Whether it is school work or household chores,  I always say you can do (almost) anything for five minutes.  I like to say,  “We do a lot of things a little bit every day.”  By using this strategy, at the end of the week we have made significant progress in many areas of our lives. 

Another place where this attitude is helpful is when you are grieving, or experiencing a difficult time.  You may not be able to do all your normal activities, but try picking just one thing to do.  Even if it is small, make movement in a direction.  Just find the next right step, and put all your focus on that.  This will make a difference!  Elizabeth Elliot used this advice when she walked through many difficult times.  At the end of her radio broadcast, Gates of Splendor, she would quote a portion of an old Saxon poem.  It encouraged her to do the next thing with passion, and with trust that God has the rest of the future in His hands. 

The full poem reads:

“From an old English parsonage down by the sea, There came in the twilight a message to me; Its quaint Saxon legend, deeply engraven, Hath, it seems to me, a teaching from Heaven. And on through the doors the quiet words ring, Like a low inspiration: ‘DO THE NEXT THING.’ Many a questioning, many a fear, Many a doubt, hath its quieting here. Moment by moment, let down from Heaven, Time, opportunity, and guidance are given. Fear not tomorrows, child of the King, Trust them with Jesus and do the next thing, Do it immediately, do it with prayer; Do it reliantly, casting all care; Do it with reverence, tracing His hand Who placed it before thee with earnest command. Stayed on Omnipotence, safe ‘neath His wing, Leave results to Jesus and do the next thing. Look to the Savior, ever serener, Working or suffering, be thy demeanor; In His dear presence, the rest of His calm, The light of His countenance still be thy psalm, Strong in His faithfulness, praise and sing. Then, as He beckons thee, do the next thing.” (Author Unknown)

So, take the advice contained in this poem.  Take the next step, trusting God with your future.  Keep your eyes on the present and His presence, and ask Him for your next right step.