As our long weekend draws to a close, and I reflect on my day, the weekend and this past week really, this thought crossed my mind-the things that are worth doing are hard. Because when I think about the things that take up my time and occupy my brain space, those things creep in, sneak in, make their way, mostly uninvited, which is why we need to think about what we are thinking about. If I let myself, I will mindlessly scroll or sit in front of a tv, forgetting about all the things I actually wanted to do.

But all the things that are worth doing, those things take time, intention, attention.

Finding something to do as a family when everyone has the day off is hard, but it is worth it. It is worth it to take that time, make those memories, and be together. Even through temper tantrums, distractions, arguments, family is important and family is worth it.

Pursuing your passion is hard. It is hard to put other things aside to focus on work and goals. It is hard to shut your brain off from distractions to do this work that may be for your eyes alone. But it is worth it.

It is hard to work out. It is hard to get up early to workout, stop in the middle of the day for a run, or put other things aside for an evening workout, but, it is worth it to keep your body healthy and in shape, you will be thankful later.

It is hard to eat healthy. It is hard to use appropriate portion sizes and skip sugary snacks. It is time consuming to prepare healthy meals. But it is worth it.

It is hard to turn off the screens to go read a book, play a game, go for a walk, do a puzzle, pick up your craft. It is hard. But it is worth it.

It is hard to get out of your head when you’re in a funk. It is hard to focus on gratitude when things aren’t going the way you want them to. But, it is worth it.

It is hard to get up before the sun. It is hard to make that time for quiet, for one on one time with the Jesus. But, it is worth it.

I can think of so many more examples for myself. These hard things require sacrifice, a dying to self and our own desires, saying goodbye to temporary pleasures for things that last for longer than a moment. As we begin a new week, I pray that if you are struggling, if you are ready to start a new habit, if you are ready to give something up, that you will find strength in God to help you do something new, something worth doing. It will be worth it!