As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.
John 9:4-5 NIV
Many times, we look at such a quote or verse and think we must rush to do God’s will. This is not the case, nor was it ever taught in Scripture. Jesus had limited time to accomplish God’s mission for him, but he was never rushed. He didn’t run around from one village to another proclaiming the coming Kingdom. No, he proclaimed the Kingdom, as he went.
We get into the habit of rushing when we compare. A wise woman shared at a writers’ conference that I shouldn’t put myself in the same place as another writer who’s already written numerous books and become a bestselling author. I am where God wants me, and he will lead and use me where I am.
Ann Voskamp writes:
Your time is limited—so don’t limit your life by wanting someone else’s…You have only one decision every day: how will you use your time.
Ann Voskamp, The Broken Way.
Looking at others leads me to want to produce for God, but when I look at God, I can allow him to produce through me. This change of perspective helps me to slow down, look at my time in a more realistic manner, and walk with purpose toward whatever he gives me for each day.
While keeping God’s perspective helps me to slow down, it doesn’t lead me to stop. He’s got me on this earth for a limited time, yes, but also for a purpose. Both have to be kept in mind when looking at each day.
How are you using your days? Will you stop and look back with regret or with thanksgiving? Reflect not on how great your words or deeds were, but whether each act, great or small, was done for his glory.
Grace and Peace