Don't Just Sit There

Read: Ephesians 2:10, Proverbs 16:9

“Even if you are on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there.” Will Rogers

Life is really short. When we are young we think it will last forever. As we age, we realize how much time we wasted as a youth. Each year as I get older I want to make sure my life and the things I am doing with it, have purpose.
I believe each of us has abilities and gifts that must be used to fulfill our purpose, and in turn bring true fulfillment. I’ve always believed that you take what you’re passionate about and direct it as your life goal. I believe that you can put it into effect as your profession and/or your ministry. Our days are so short here on earth, and we want to be doing everything God has called us to do.

I encourage you to do some soul searching. Ask yourself, “Am I doing what God has inspired me or gifted me to do? I remember a time in my life that I decided that I would choose what was best for my life. It didn’t go so well. I had a friend ask me, “Are you wasting the time God gave you on this earth?” It was as if someone hit me over the head with a brick. That question changed my perspective on my life. I’ve never forgotten it.

Several years ago as I was meeting with a friend from church, I asked her, “If you had enough money to do anything you wanted for God, what would it be?” She quickly responded, “A food bank for the church.” I quickly responded, “That doesn’t take very much money. Go for it.” Within a couple of months, after meeting with the church elders, she had it up and running. She was so gifted in this area. I think she had a budget of $25.00 a month. With her grocery store coupons and weekly ads she could make that $25.00 stretch so much that sometimes she left the store with over a $100 in groceries, and several times they owed her money. With her deals and church donations she would serve several families complete Thanksgiving meals. It was amazing. She left a legacy by applying her passion and using her abilities to serve others.

Just recently, one of my friends who is a RN responded to a need in the local community from reading about it in the church bulletin. Normally, she would hesitate, pray about it, and then decide if it was something she should do (all good things). This time God gave her no chance and she was obedient to act as it quickly came all together. There are many things I see as little miracles in this situation. I can’t wait to see all God does through her willing heart and obedience. I believe the blessings will pour fourth in both directions.

If you attend church on a weekly basis and don’t serve in some capacity, it’s time to stop sitting. You are missing out on many blessings. Jesus came to show us how to serve. If He was serving, so should each one of us. If you don’t attend church, look around your community. Your abilities and passions are needed. They always say only 10% of the people are doing all the work. That percentage drives me crazy and it’s wearing out so many hard working people. If you are one of those 90% - jump to the other side. Your life will never be the same (for the good) if you do. Just don’t wait! I pray nothing would get in your way – especially you. We can make so many excuses. Trust me, I know.

This morning as I was reading in the devotional, Streams in the Desert by L.B. Cowman, I was reminded that sometimes we don’t use our gifts until we are forced to. “You have some gifts that would never have been discovered if not for trials. You can depend upon the fact that God often sends trials so our gifts may be discovered and so we may be certain of their existence. And there is more than just discovering our gifts – we experience real growth in grace as a result of our trials being sanctified by Him.”

I’ve always had a love for writing, but it was only through illness that caused me (or should I say forced me) to take the time to write. Through writing I am allowed to minister to others in ways I would have never imagined. In reality, I am the one who is ministered to the most.

We have no excuses. No matter what your circumstances you have the ability to make a difference. If He truly has put it within you, He’ll help you achieve it. The only way you’ll not get run over, is if you’re up and going. It’s time.