改善 (kaizen) is a Japanese philosophy that focuses on continuous improvement throughout all aspects of life. The two original Chinese characters that make up this word are: 改 (change) and 善 (good)... quite literally, "change is good". Well - that's a no-brainer! Or is it...?
I'm becoming acutely aware of how easy it can be to become too content, too comfortable, with the status quo. The way things generally 'are' or have 'always been' is not always the best, most life-giving, secure way. At some point, if I am sincerely interested in improving the quality and effectiveness of my work, my relationships and my commitment to God's higher purpose for my life, I need to consider the value of change and the notion of continuous improvement.
And I am sure that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished. (Philippians 1:6)
With Christ's help, there is no end to the maturing process. (Philippians 4:13)
...The good soil represents those who hear and accept God's message and produce a huge harvest... (Mark 4: 1-20)
Change can be messy, for sure. It's frequently difficult, requiring effort and adaptation, even compromise, on my part - and it's often inconvenient. There are things in my life, my work, my character --that I would like to change or that I know need to change -- and yet, it rarely happens as soon as I'd like. It's easy to become discouraged, impatient and jaded when I don't see the desired results I'd like to see.... and things can often appear to get worse before they get better...
A different perspective, an improved attitude, a renewed commitment, a change of heart, a change of address... or simply a change of scene... can really do some good.
I'm becoming acutely aware of how easy it can be to become too content, too comfortable, with the status quo. The way things generally 'are' or have 'always been' is not always the best, most life-giving, secure way. At some point, if I am sincerely interested in improving the quality and effectiveness of my work, my relationships and my commitment to God's higher purpose for my life, I need to consider the value of change and the notion of continuous improvement.
And I am sure that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished. (Philippians 1:6)
With Christ's help, there is no end to the maturing process. (Philippians 4:13)
...The good soil represents those who hear and accept God's message and produce a huge harvest... (Mark 4: 1-20)
Change can be messy, for sure. It's frequently difficult, requiring effort and adaptation, even compromise, on my part - and it's often inconvenient. There are things in my life, my work, my character --that I would like to change or that I know need to change -- and yet, it rarely happens as soon as I'd like. It's easy to become discouraged, impatient and jaded when I don't see the desired results I'd like to see.... and things can often appear to get worse before they get better...
A different perspective, an improved attitude, a renewed commitment, a change of heart, a change of address... or simply a change of scene... can really do some good.
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