Beneficial
Oxford definition: adj. “improving a situation; having a helpful or useful effect”
The older I get, the more I value feeling good. The older I get, the more attuned I am to my body – specifically the effects of what I do for it and what I put into it. With a mother who lived to 96 and a grandmother who lived to 98, longevity runs in the family. If I’m going to live long and enjoy myself, I would do well to make choices that are beneficial.
There’s a sign at the gym that says, “Keep moving!” and another one that says, “When you’re tempted to quit, remember why you started.” These axioms are good reminders that what’s worthwhile in life takes effort. If I want to grow old gracefully, it’s going to take work.
What does it mean to grow old gracefully, or for that matter, to live gracefully? Does it have to do with choosing well? If so, how does that translate in practical, day-to-day living? Healthy eating, lots of rest, and regular exercise are beneficial and they’re not over-rated. Equally important is how we relate to the people in our lives. Do you believe you have the power to influence those around you? If you do, in what ways? No one can contribute to the world in the exact way you can, which means you have a unique opportunity to make a difference. Those differences can be large or small.
For instance, I made a phone call this morning. I had been dragging my feet to do it for nearly three weeks. The call took all of 18 minutes, and it made a world of difference in that person’s day. They said so. It felt good to make someone’s day and to bring a little cheer. It sounds like a little thing, but that’s precisely the point – little things can make a big difference. Choosing to make that phone call had a positive effect on both the individual and on me. It was beneficial.
What does choosing well look like for you? How does it practically apply to your life? In our Western world we have so many opportunities and so much choice, that it’s often difficult to decide what’s most beneficial. In his letter to the Philippians, Paul prayed that their love would increase, both in knowledge and insight, so that they would be able to discern what is best… Just as Paul prayed for his beloved church, we can pray the same. Seeking godly wisdom in choosing what is most beneficial is a worthwhile ask.
Take some time to think about your day and your week. Scan your schedule and consider whose path you will cross. What decisions do you have to make? What do you want to accomplish? Sit with God and ask for insight to know what’s most beneficial.
““Everything is permissible” – but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible” – but not everything is constructive. Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others. ”
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. ”
“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ…. ”