I’ve been off work this week, which doesn’t mean I’ve been sleeping in and lounging around the house most days. Instead, I have been trying to get some projects done around home and a few other places that have been put off for a while due to being lower on the priority list or having less daylight to tackle. There isn’t a lack of things to do, just a lack of time to get everything done we would like to do. So each day turns into a triage of trying to get the most urgent things done each day, until some things just never get done, or so it seems. We have the same amount of time every day, but how we use that seems to vary a bit. I had hopes of doing some reading, as well as calling and writing to some people I have not talked to in a while, but that also seems to get pushed back on the priority list, even on days off. What are some things that you put off that you would really like to make time to do?
The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. Proverbs 16:9
So, each day is a mix of things we need to do (eat, sleep, work, pay bills, etc), things we don’t always want to do, but should (clean dishes, laundry, care for kids, shovel snow, etc), and things we really want to do (talk to friends, travel, read, entertainment, etc). How do you prioritize all the things you have on your plate each day? Some responsible folks like to get the tough work done first, then reward themselves with something nice when done. Other folks tend to shirk as much responsibility as possible and do whatever they feel like doing first, and most of the time. While we likely know folks in these extremes, we likely fall somewhere in the middle and are responsible most of the time. During some milestones, like birthdays, or Dr. visits, or as the new year starts, we may stop and reflect on our actions a bit and may even say, ‘I need to make some changes.’ But making significant change is difficult for most of us, so how do we do it?
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6
Who do you turn to for counsel when you face difficult decisions, or need an objective opinion on how to move forward? Do you consult with your wife, or your pastor, or maybe have a good friend who seldom steers you wrong? You may even have a counselor that helps give you a good perspective in dealing with certain issues. How often do you take your struggles to God in prayer, and wait on Him to answer? Often, many Christians and even non-Christians may use prayer as a last resort when nothing else seems to work, and we’ve run out of ways to do it ourselves. I can think of several times where I was looking for something, and out of frustration said, ‘God, can you help me with this?’ While I did not always get an immediate answer, often I calmed down enough to listen and consider a few other options, one of which I was looking for. So, yes God can even answer seemingly petty requests at times, as if he is saying ‘Nothing is to big or to small for Him to handle.’ When we come to the end of our rope and plead to God, not testing Him, I cannot tell you how many times He has proven faithful to help me and others. You would think that would be my first resort instead of my last when dealing with difficulty. I pray that we consult HIm more in all things, whether major or minor, throughout the coming weeks.
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Yours in Christ,
Clark
