ABCs to the “Pursuit of Happyness"

The movie Pursuit of Happyness, based on the true-life story of self-made millionaire Chris Gardner, reveals three character traits that attribute to success; be Aware, Bold, and Controlled.

First, Gardner’s character, played by Will Smith, is aware of his situation. Even more, he’s aware of his actions and how they affect those around him. He sacrifices himself to guard the heart, mind, body, and soul of the son he loves. He sees when his son hurts, and chooses the words or action, to the best of his ability, to make it right. At all times, Gardner is aware of his plight, his strengths, limitations, and a path that leads to life and the pursuit of happiness. Matthew 7:14 says what is true in Gardner’s life, “But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”

Second, throughout his life, Gardner is bold. The man takes a no with respect but doesn’t give up. He asks for what he needs and wants. He is a living example of 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.”

Third, self discipline is evident the way he controls his thoughts, anger and the appearance he gives others. He does not give into pity with fear, laziness, depression, sob stories or excuses. He does not give the enemy a foothold. One day at a time, he can say, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7).

Can we say the same?


(271 words; January 7, 2007)

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For further pursuit:

I AM AWARE: In your life today, how you can think, say, or do something better with each person:
1. God …
2. Yourself …
3. Someone you love …

I AM BOLD: For sometime this week, write down a goal you can accomplish to act on God’s spirit of power in these three areas:
1. I will not be timid the next time …
2. I will act in love by …
3. I will choose to be self disciplined when …

I AM CONTROLLED: Think of one area in which you struggle the most with self control. Fill in the blanks to write a plan of action you can commit to just for today.
1. Today I will fight the good fight for victory over _____________ because …
2. To finish the race today I will/will not …
3. To keep the faith I can …

You can do it! Cut the last portion out, keep it in your wallet or tape it to your bathroom mirror and each morning commit to the promise again – just for that day. God calls us to live one day at a time when he warns us in Matthew 6:34, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

May this bring you many blessings. I will pray for those who have taken this step each day as I look at my own list.

Love,
Nancy

P.S. Here’s to the pursuit of happiness in your new year! Cheers!