Sometimes we are so drawn into the problems -- and needs -- and wants of others that we neglect God’s Temple. “What!” you exclaim. “I’ve got to . . . “ and you rattle off a list of important demands on your time and energy.
What does the Bible say? “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, Whom you have from God, and you are not your own?” 1 Corinthians 6:19.
“But, I need to -- I want to -- .” Yes, it’s easy to listen to your own inner taskmaster, but is that your ego speaking?
For a fresh, new look at the situation sit down with pencil and paper and jot down the first impressions that come to mind. Sometimes, seeing in black and white helps a busy mind to settle down. Gather the facts, analyze, approach the problem from a different angle, then pray over these details to ask for more clarity from the Lord.
Are you overlooking some important aspect? Are you viewing yourself as having more physical endurance that you do have right now? Are you over-estimating your knowledge of the problem?
Is your motive to help or to completely fix the problem? What if no one sees you doing it? What if you don’t get any credit for doing it? What if you happen to blunder and make things worse, as a result?
Are you getting physical rest? mental rest? What if you go ahead, and a physical problem happens to you? Are you honoring the Lord by harming your own body?
This is not to say, be so slow in responding that you are not helping at all. Your motive may be fine, but your method might need a different approach.
Don’t neglect to do what you can, when you can, how you can -- when you are sure it’s the Lord giving you the wisdom, protection, and provision for the challenge. The problem calls for prayer, and that calls for a deepening relationship with Jesus. You listening, you trusting, you obeying Him. Give Him the glory, and keep growing in Him.
Remember Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:27-29 NKJV. Rest for the body, rest for the soul: something to pray about.
Opportunity or problem? Obedience or disobedience? Are you taking care of yourself?
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by Elaine Hardt ©2011
