I HAVE RAISED PROCRASTINATION TO AN ART FORM. I can find lots of things to do to keep me from doing the things I am supposed to do. I can rearrange piles on my desk ad-infinitum; I can play Snood on my computer until I burn up a chip. I can put off phone calls, bill paying and lawn-mowing with the best of them. I have an earned doctorate in the field of procrastination.
But, this is not the course of study that our Lord desires us to pursue. The Apostle Paul writes, “Be very careful, then, how you live —not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16) The challenge is for us to work with diligence, for in God’s economy there is not much time to be wasting. That does not mean we are to work ourselves to the bone. Remember, the God who created work also created the Sabbath. The issue is not about work versus rest, but work versus waste.
Everything I good thing I have is from God’s gracious hand. The teachings and commands regarding tithing come out of this vital truth. Not only has God given me wealth, health and provision, but He has also granted me time. Time that is to be used for His glory. As I give to the Lord in response to what he has given to me, I am then walking in grate-ful obedience. Moses reminded the people of God, “Give generously to Him and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.” (Deuteronomy 15:10) It is a reminder that we should heed as well.
So, what has God given you to do? Care for your family’s spiritual welfare? Spend some time in concerted prayer and the study of God’s Word? Finish those projects that you promised to do a couple months ago? Get involved in a hands-on ministry of the local church? Tell your neighbor what it is that really makes a difference in your life: Jesus Christ?
I don’t know what’s on your list. I don’t know what God is calling you to do. All I do know that procrastination is not the spiritual discipline that God seeks for us to develop. Again, the Word of God is our teacher, for it is written, “find out what pleases the Lord. . . Be very careful, then, how you live —not as unwise but as wise.” (Ephesians 5:10, 15)
Time to delete that game of Snood off my computer!