I’m feeling a little nervous today. I still have a lot to do before I head out on a little trip tomorrow. But I want to take the time to blog anyway. Because life with God isn’t always just relaxed and contemplative. And because God is right there with me, no matter how busy things are or what’s left on my to-do list—and I definitely can’t forget that. And because He just reminded me of this verse: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
Jesus is the source of my strength! He gives me wisdom and love and self-control. Especially when things are hectic. Especially when I’m tempted to cut out the wrong things. Because work often seems more important to me than spending time with people. But Jesus helps me set my priorities straight. Love, not success. Love is always more important.
“Prudence” is an interesting word my German Bible uses in this verse. It’s closely related to serenity. By nature, I’m usually only prudent and serene when I’m not stressed, and when I’m alone or with my closest family, I think. But God has given me the power of prudence. It’s actually already there. Everything I need is there, within me. Strength, love, and composure. Exactly what I need today! I just have to let God’s Spirit work within me. Seek His help. Not rush headlong into my to-do list like someone being chased. Nothing bad will happen if I don’t get everything done. Nothing can separate me from God’s love. I’m not that important. I can also ask others for help. Delegate a task or cancel it. Somehow I rarely do that. I like to accomplish what I set out to do on my own. But I don’t like the pressure I put on myself! So I’ll pray over my to-do list and ask God for strength and wisdom—and for love and composure! And for open eyes to see His interruptions.
My list is perhaps like the sheet music I’ll be playing today. But the Holy Spirit is the conductor! And there are other musicians I’m playing with as well. And different tempos, and pauses too. The conductor sets the rhythm. I shouldn’t lose sight of him; I shouldn’t just stick to the sheet music. Otherwise, it won’t be a good concert.
It’s both beautiful and scary to realize how dependent we are on God. But actually, it’s very liberating. In him we live and move and exist (Acts 17:28). God doesn’t rush us. He has invited us to follow him and learn from him. He is gentle and humble. He guides me into the right pace of life. Sometimes He nudges me. Sometimes He slows me down. Always lovingly and patiently.
Prudence and serenity sound like a good pace. I’m going to try it today.
God doesn´t want us to be shy with his gifts,
but bold and loving and sensible.
2. Timotheus 1:7 8 (MSG)