Hectic. Stressful. Exhausting. These words swim in my head as I consider the past week. My son just started Kindergarten and as a family we are smack dab in the middle of transitioning into the school routine—rushed breakfasts, half-brushed hair, haphazardly made lunches, and tearful goodbyes have suddenly shoved their way into our schedules. On top of that, I agreed to manage two of my mother's businesses while she's vacationing out of the country and babysit my sister's one-year-old, all the while trying to juggle the responsibilities of my own family, house, and job without losing my mind. If I were running a race, I'd be zig-zagging through every lane, in danger of falling flat on my face!
When we say "yes" to every seemingly good opportunity that comes our way, we run the risk of neglecting our calling. Hebrews 12:1 states, "...let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us (emphasis mine)." Like lanes on a track, God has laid our unique path and purpose before each of us with the intention that we should remain focused, diligent, and steadfast in our calling.
So how do we continue on in the race, embracing selflessness without losing ourselves? By guarding our calling! We should prayerfully consider each opportunity that comes our way, and follow the Spirit's lead. We must learn the effectiveness of a godly "yes" and the empowerment of an appropriate "no". These two little words will determine whether we finish strong...or crawl across the finish line. And above all, let's fix our eyes on Jesus—with a singular focus and an undivided heart, we can run with perseverance the race marked out for us!
Reflection Questions
- If you could lay down one extra responsibility today, what would it be?
- What are your spiritual gifts, and how do you think God wants you to use them for His Kingdom?
- Pray Psalm 119:10 as you seek the Lord's plan for your life: "I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands."