I find that there seems to be a lack of consistency in those things that are done. I am witness to the lack of doing and then reacting to the urgency to get it done and then the celebration of completing the task at the last minute. The reality is that all of the “extra” urgent work could have been avoided if there would have just been some consistent work at getting it done in the first place without all of the scrambling.
The above also bears itself in our Christian lives. I see the lack of continual worship and doing for God and then the scramble to appear greater in the moments of visibility. The thing is that doing those things continually is not glamorous and are boring. But, when done, they open up more time to enjoy the other parts of life as opposed to running around constantly putting out fires.
We are to do those things that belong to salvation and our relationship with Christ, not when visible, but continually.
“9Though we speak in this way, yet in your case, beloved, we feel sure of better things—things that belong to salvation. 10For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do. 11And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, 12so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” — Hebrews 6:9-12 (ESV)
There are those things that are done in and for the name of Christ. I am tasked with doing those things, not just once, but continually and in “earnestness”. I am to do all the things to bring glory to His name, at all times and not just in the moment when others may be watching. When I do, I avoid the “extra” work to get caught up.
Yes, when the work is done continually, there is a lack of fanfare and in some cases there is a lack of any acknowledgment of the work even being done. In fact, there is in most cases invisibility to the work at all. It is the consistency in the work that makes the work more meaningful. Yes, there is the rush from the urgent need and completion, but there is also the exhaustion from having to exert more energy than would normally be needed. Working consistently provides more stability and long term pleasure in the work.
My relationship with God is one the warrants the continual action and consistent work. I have to remember to work with purpose and consistency to maintain the relationship and not wish for all to be great just in those times of urgent need.
What does your approach to God’s work reveal? Are you constantly scrambling to accomplish things? What if you were consistent and continually worked for Christ to demonstrate your continued relationship with Him?
Trevor's Thoughts 