Just Start

"I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me. They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work."  Nehemiah 2:18

Running is hard.  
"Do you love it?" a friend asked, when I spoke of running.  

"No.  Not at first, not for at least 10 minutes," I said.  "It's hard.  I don't want to.  But if I just start, it gets good."  

I've been arguing with myself, lately, about running, about prayer, about writing, and other stuff this sloth doesn't feel like tackling.   

But I've also seen a truth these days.  Chances I won't get this thing done, running, writing, or whatever it is, are 100% if I don't start.  Type some words.  Tie my shoes.  

If I can get past the front porch steps, chances increase.  This thing could happen.  Usually, it does, if I just start.  Open the prayer book.  Bend the knee and heart.  God's gracious hand is on me, and I am determined to simply begin this good work.  

These days, I often hear the discouragement in other voices that want to change, need to do something difficult and different, but just can't seem to.  Exercise, consistency in prayer, getting in the Word.  Our flesh (body, mind, time) no doubt works against us.  Easier to wait till tomorrow...but slowly self-destroying.  

I want to say I get that.  I will pray for you.  God's gracious hand is on us, the King is on our side.  Come with me.  Tie your shoes. 
Let's begin this good work.