The Value of Consistency
God gifted us consistency as a way to tap into healthy rhythms.
By: Sarah Chittenden
As a Woodmen Kids staff member, I can easily take for granted the value of all our Ministry Partners who serve on a consistent basis. But as a mom, I can already see the impact this consistency has on my 2 ½ year old’s life. In fact, I think consistency is a huge part of our rhythm as humans, no matter how old we are.
From the beginning of creation, we read about how God worked to bring order and consistency to the world. Genesis 1:1a says: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep.” In this verse, I picture a world full of chaos…a bit hectic and out of control. But the first thing God did was systematically and intentionally spend 6 days creating the world to bring order and form.
God’s very nature is one of consistency. He is consistent in His love, promises, faithfulness, patience and presence…He is a God of consistency, and nothing about Him will ever change. I think He created all of us to live in a way that mirrors this consistency. Whether it’s our morning routine, our specific coffee order, our cleaning habits or even our family traditions, consistency is a natural part of who we are. And yet, I think we often overlook the value of consistency for ourselves and for our kids.
When I look at how chaotic the world seems today, I feel God wants us to lean into this consistency more than ever. In some ways, it almost seems like consistency is actually the antidote God wants us to use in our battle against chaos. First and foremost, He wants us to be consistent in our relationship with Him. Without being grounded in our relationship with Christ, nothing is in order. But as a parent, I often focus more on my child’s relationship with God and forget all about my relationship with Him.
Consistency, itself, isn’t hard…but it can be hard to make it a priority. When I look at how my son thrives on routine, order, and structure, I’m reminded to slow down and think of small ways to prioritize consistency. Simply by showing up consistently, his Sunday School teachers create an environment where he feels safe and seen so he can learn about Jesus. By incorporating simple actions like stopping to listen when he wants my attention or asking him what he did during the day, I’m creating a space where he feels loved and cared for and is more willing to listen and obey.
Consistency is a ripple effect that starts with our relationship with God and infiltrates every part of our daily lives. How can you find ways to be more consistent in your own life?
Can you put your phone down and give your child your full attention for 15 minutes after work?
Has your morning or nighttime routine become a little chaotic?
Do you need to start a Friday pizza night and spend more time together as a family?
It doesn’t take much to be consistent…but it’s worth it when you make it a priority!
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