Opposites

1 Thessalonians 4:1-18
1 Peter 3:13-22
Ephesians 6:10-20

I am notorious for waiting until a deadline is looming before I actively work on a project. I may ponder my approach to the work for quite some time, but I start it early.

I have always been this way: school assignments, work tasks, writing projects. I find my creative juices flow better as the deadline approaches. The upcoming finish line helps me focus and plan my time accordingly. I have found success in my methodology.

This deadline approach, however, is most definitely not for everyone! I’m sorry if reading the first few paragraphs caused you stress. Fortunately, I recognize there is value in learning to approach tasks with a more immediate timeline.

My system has worked so well for me that I’ve failed to comprehend what it would be like to be proactive from the start of a project. As if the Lord knew I could benefit from experiencing that perspective, He introduced me to my now-husband who, as you may have guessed, is the exact opposite of me. The deadline for a project is weeks away? Great, let’s start working after lunch.

We’re still navigating our unique differences in this arena, but I’m thankful I’m able to see how we balance each other out, and how I’ve grown from that. Our story also gifted me helpful insight into how I may more effectively live ready.

Living ready is a daily process, one in which initiative and deadline coexist.

Today is what I have. Because death is my ultimate deadline, I cannot live like I have countless days left. While I’m certain of my eternity in heaven with Jesus, my earthly tomorrow is not guaranteed.

I may live for several more decades with innumerable experiences
and immeasurable moments to share the love of the Lord.
Or today may be my last.

Just pondering this convicts me. How did I spend my time today? Did I live by the instruction the Lord gave me in 1 Thessalonians 4:3-6, treating today as an opportunity to draw closer to the Lord and shine for Him??

Not consciously, no.

It’s evening as I write this. Had this been my last day on earth, though successful by earthly standards, I would be disappointed in how I lived it. I see room for growth in my daily connection with the Lord. His gentle conviction highlights my lack of interactions with Him throughout the day. It reminds me of Psalm 119:36 which says, “turn my heart to Your decrees”. I’m invited to “take up the full armor of God” (Ephesians 6:13) so I can start and finish my days stronger.

I have experienced seasons in which Christ is my first waking thought.  I’ve discovered the beauty of quickly confessing sin and watching the Lord enable me to sin less by drawing me closer to Him. Submitting and surrendering to the Lord’s plan and guidance has never failed me. It hasn’t always made life easy, but I’ve never regretted obeying His leading.

I’ve also traversed seasons where “living ready” presented challenges, such as prayer and time in the Word not coming easily. I admit I find myself in such a season now. Much change over the last year has shattered routines, including my consistent time with the Lord.

Perhaps you can relate, Sister? In the Lord’s presence, take a moment to consider your daily routine. Ask Him to show you when and how He might be drawing you closer to His heart, or nudging you to share Him with another. (1 Peter 3:15) Let’s seek the Lord for greater awareness of His Spirit moving in our lives, and a tender heart to respond in readiness.

Writing this journey reminds me of the great need to live ready: expectant to encounter the Lord, ready to share the gospel in word and deed, ready to walk out the day with the Lord for His glory.

Oh Lord, help.
I acknowledge that my heart feels dry and I am scraping the bottom of my emotional energy tank. I know You are the source of life and, apart from You, I can do nothing. Would you please draw me to You? I long to obey and meet with You.

As I put forth the effort to find You, I’m claiming the promise that You will be found by me when I search for You with all of my heart. (Jeremiah 29:13-14) Help me approach You with initiative in the morning and live my life as though evening is my deadline. Help me delight in Your presence and rest in Your arms as I move throughout the day.

More of You, Lord, more of You.
To You be the glory.
AMEN.

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