Dedicated Posture

“Stand up straight!” “Pull your shoulders back!” As children, we're told to have good posture, but does anybody know what that looks like?

Here's what the dictionary defines posture as : "(1a:) the position or bearing of the body for a special purpose (b:) the pose of a model or artistic figure (2:) state or condition, with respect to capability in particular circumstances (3:) a conscious mental or outward behavioral attitude."

When we think of the word dedication, we can usually refer to famous people - three in particular come to mind: Three MJ's (Jordan, Jackson, & J.Fox) regardless, of what you think about these individuals, they have unquestionably been able to accomplish, in worldly standards, high levels of achievement.

All three had to overcome odds that would've caused many to give up long ago. Criticism, abuse, and illness. What kept them going? I believe it was a sense of purpose. They had vision, focus, clarity, and belief. Great qualities we all need.

In this section of the painting is a man praying at the western wall, it's an expression of dedication and devotion. See the guy next to him, in the suit? He's the "qualified expert" explaining what's happening, what he should do, or why, what he's doing, won't work. He's like the critic in our lives trying to discourage us from our purpose and calling in life. The guy on the left, as we mentioned, is just watching, not wanting to get involved - holding back. Which one are you?

"Determine what specific goal you want to achieve. Then dedicate yourself to its attainment with unswerving “singleness of purpose, the trenchant zeal of a crusader." -Paul J. Meyer

You see, there's another MJ that came, long before the other three. He had a critic, and was criticized by many. He overcame incredible odds. His purpose was motivated out of, not just a love of His calling, but a Love for us. His accomplishment has outlasted all types of denials - but you won't find an asterisk* by His name.

Don't get me wrong, A good posture is important for your back. Backaches, headaches, and other painful symptoms are often associated with a bad posture.
Ahhh, but a dedicated posture is good for your "backbone". This type of posture affects your entire being - from the inside out!

"Don't aim at success - the more you aim at it and make it a target, the more you are going to miss it. For success, like happiness, cannot be pursued; it must ensue...as the unintended side-effect of one's personal dedication to a course greater than oneself." -Victor Frankl, Man’s Search for Meaning

I hope you will posture yourself in dedication to your purpose today.

Philippians 4:4-9