Gina Caswell Kelly
We all have our reasons for doing what we do. Ideally, our reason is because we feel that God is leading us that direction. We should always make our decision based on God’s guidance. Always. In all things. Sadly, this does not always happen. So many times, we go our own way without once thinking that God might have a better way.
A few years ago, I came across these Cowboy Ethics Ten Principles to Live By. I love them. I wish I could say that I came up with this myself. These are great. And they all follow God’s plan for our lives. He may not be mentioned, but you can certainly see His plan at the core.
Live each day with courage. – Face each day with God at your side giving you strength and courage to face the day. No matter what.
2. Take pride in your work. – Work as if you are working for God. In all things. If it is carrying out the trash or designing a rocket to the moon, do it all as if you were doing it for God. Pride shows.
3. Always finish what you start. – Always. Don’t quit before the job is done. Don’t quit before the season is over. God grants you strength to finish. Trust Him for this.
4. Do what has to be done. – Face each job like a man, and do what has to be done. Don’t put things off. Don’t let dread hang over you. Face the job and do it. Again, turn to God for His strength.
5. Be tough, but fair. – In parenting. In coaching. In everything. Be tough and hold the line, but always be fair and understanding. Not everyone you will work with is coming from your same background. Have some understanding of others, but still hold the line.
6. When you make a promise, keep it. – Enough said. If you say you will do it, then do it. If you make a promise, keep your word. Let people look at you and know you are a person of integrity.
7. Ride for the brand. – My favorite! Ride for the brand. Represent in all you do. As Christians we have to choose to ride for the brand each day. Do it!
8. Talk less and say more. – Boy, this says a lot in a few words. Less is very often more when it comes to what we need to get said. Let your actions finish your thought.
9. Remember that some things are not for sale. – Recognize the value of honesty, integrity, truth, freedom. And know that those things are not for sale for any amount of money. Stand up for those things. Live those things.
10. Know where to draw the line. – When is enough, enough? Know what you will allow and hold fast to that line. Don’t tolerate anything less than the best in any area. God gave His best for us. We should give our best for Him, and know when to say no and draw that line.
Raise your kiddos knowing the things you value, and above all value God and His guidance. I talk to so many kids who just flat don’t have any guidance. If you know a kid like that, step up. Teach him these values. Make a difference in a life.
Maybe not straight from God’s Word, or directly from me, but certainly words to live by. And God truly is at the core in all of this.
Trust Him. Lean on Him. Let Him guide you. It will make a difference.
