“And whatever you do whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” (1)
I struggle with time management. Life is busy. Daily we’re given new opportunities for growth and development. With so many choices, how do we know which ones to pursue, to get involved in, and which ones to pass by? Especially when it comes to work or ministry. Where do we draw the line on healthy boundaries, where our yes is yes, and our no is no?
I need to make an important decision about accepting a leadership position in ministry, but I am also pressed with other ministry responsibilities. This position will involve significant time and preparation. What should I do? What direction should I go? As I pray about this opportunity, I also am seeking wisdom to serve with all my heart, soul and mind, so I can give thanks and glory to God. I don’t want God’s second best when I can have His best. Too me, being over-committed is like eating left overs. Our efforts can become cold, ineffective and we are not of much use. That impacts the quality of our work, and our effectiveness is diminished.
This past week our microwave stopped working. Out of habit, I pulled food out of the refrigerator and set it in the microwave to heat. Oops! I had a lapse of memory! You know what? I found myself eating cold leftovers. Cold leftovers aren’t very tasty, and don’t activate the taste buds, in fact, they are just plain unappetizing! No satisfaction! Just plain, tasteless, chilled food. Yuk! Eating cold leftovers made me think and consider this decision in ministry. Do I want to serve cold leftovers with being spread too thin? Or better yet, would I want the people I care about to eat my cold leftovers?
I want my yes to be “yes” with my whole heart: to minister with great joy, giving my all. I do not need to serve cold leftovers, like you, I have a choice. We need to remember the glory of God is the end result of all our work and actions. Which brings me back to my important decision. Will I accept this ministry position?
I am seeking, earnestly praying and weighing the cost of this important decision. One thing is for certain: No matter the decision I will ultimately give thanks to God in the end.
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (2)
O Father of glory, it is so great to be in Your midst to give You thanks. I seek You to guide my steps in those places to make Your deeds known. Fashion my work with patience and endurance for the labor of my hands that they will glorify Your great name. Amen
Footnotes:
1. Colossians 3:17
2. 1 Corinthians 10:31
All Scripture is cited from the nas
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