Stepping Stones: Don’t Wait…Do It Now!

Transformational Thought

When faced with difficulties or discomfort, our natural reaction usually falls into one of 2 camps. Either ignore it and hope it goes away, or react in a knee-jerk way that might bring immediate relief, but usually guarantees more damage later on. Neither option works, but being addicted to comfort as we all are, like a gunslinger from the old west we continue to whip out these “weapons” when we feel threatened by the adversity God allows to enter our day.

I have learned…well no, I actually continue to learn the hard way that failing to deal with adversity immediately compounds the pain and suffering. Waiting, ignoring, or hiding never makes it better. But I also am still in the process of learning that even though you shouldn’t put it off, you also can’t just immediately react (unless you have been training well). We have to think first and then respond to have the best chance for success in a situation.

Using either the “ignore it” or “react without thinking” strategy really shows a “my kingdom come, my will be done mentality” and exposes my lack of faith in God’s promises, track record, character, sovereignty and plan for my life. We really need a “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done” mindset.

In the scripture reading for today Jesus Christ lays down a very important principle: do what you must do now. Do it quickly. If you do not act immediately, if you do not pay the price to settle the adversity, an inevitable process begins…and that process will not stop until you have “paid the last penny.”

Today, think of an adversity that continues to drain you. Why are you not addressing it head on with Godly discernment? Settle that score today, at least to the best of what you can control. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I know, Father, that I have stayed away from Your light for fear that my bad deeds, sins, and adversities will be exposed. I no longer want to live in darkness. I pray, Father, that You will help me live by Your Truth and in Your Light so that all can see what I do is done through You. Help me, Lord, to learn to deal with my adversities immediately so that they won’t fester and grow. I pray in the name of the one you sent to teach us truth, Jesus Christ, and all God’s children said – AMEN!

The Truth
Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. I tell you the truth; you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.
Matthew 5:25,26

This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God.
John 3:19-21