Over the last year or so, Lydia has been doing more things for herself. You’d think I would have more time. Though in reality, I spend about as much time coaching her and suggesting ideas. Here is an example of a typical morning:
Lydia, procrastinating and playing: “I don’t know what to wear!”
Me, checking the clock: “Well, you could start with your pants.”
Lydia, starting to whine: “But, but, I want to wear a dress….and I don’t know which shoes to wear!”
Me, quickly building up steam: “I said, put on your PANTS!”
(Can you relate?!)
Lydia plays, jumps on the bed and wastes time, preferring her own agenda. I know it is par for the course—no one said parenting would be easy. But, it drives me nuts!
“I don’t know what pajamas I want to wear…”
This also happens at bedtime, so I’ve had many “opportunities” to ponder the situation.
And truthfully, there are times when I act the same way. (Gasp!) Yep. I can delay in obeying God in the most simple things—like adjusting my schedule, or calling to encourage a friend, or offering to help someone. I wrongly think whatever I happen to be doing is more important.
Often, God will ask me to do something that doesn’t quite make sense. Sometimes it feels uncomfortable or inconvenient. Occasionally, it even seems inconsequential—a tiny task that won’t make a difference. “It won’t matter if I don’t…“
Yes, it does matter! Delayed obedience is still disobedience.
Like an exasperated parent, I bet sometimes we drive God a little crazy, too. Thank the Lord for His abundant mercy and grace!
I want all the answers, the whole picture. I want to know the purpose, plan, and the procedures. I want a guarantee, don’t you?!
Well, like my child (ahem), I just have to take the first step. I pray for wisdom and courage. I seek wise counsel. Yes.
But I can’t delay if it still seems unclear. God will provide the next step when needed. If I make a mistake, I don’t have to worry. His grace gives me a do-over.
(No. Grace is not a free license to do whatever we want. Sorry!)
By faith, do the uncomfortable, inconvenient thing. Even if it doesn’t seem important.
Soon, there’s momentum—moving in the right direction and seeing results. Praise God!
Is there a next step you need to take? Please stop resisting, and do it cheerfully!
Not sure what that is? Try one of these from Colossians 3, my emphasis added.
v. 12: “…clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
v.13: “Bear with each other and forgive one another… Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
v.14: “And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
v.15: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”
**And whatever you do, PLEASE, don’t forget to put on your pants!!**
I needed this! I’ve been putting off something that God has called me to do for quite some time while waiting for life to slow down a bit. I’m sure he’s up there tapping his foot and checking his watch 😉 Thank you!
I’m glad to hear that! 🙂
Hmmm, I’ve noticed several messages popping up in my life lately about obedience. I wonder what God is trying to tell me. Looks like I need to slow down and listen a little better.
I have found that God honors us if we seek His input. If we make a mistake, He will set us on the right path.