Time-stealer, motivation-killer, clutter-inducer… Ugh! That’s procrastination.  It is defined as an act or habit of putting off or delaying, especially something requiring immediate attention. 

A friend shared her journey through this land of “I’ll do it later.” It was a problem she could not overcome on her own.  It took time, help from the Lord, and perseverance.

She mentioned two scriptures that she relied on. These strengthened her.

The first scripture was “I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13” (NKJV ). When she was feeling overwhelmed by the basket of unfolded laundry or the dirty dishes on the counter, she prayed this scripture. This encouraged her forward one step at a time.

I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me.

~Philippians 4:13 NKJV

The second scripture she relied on is “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14 NKJV ). Paul stated clearly he was reaching for the higher goal of completing his race and being with Christ Jesus. This is our goal also, with the knowledge that the Spirit of God aids us in the tasks that seem insignificant.

Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

~Philippians 3:13-14 NKJV

Paul emphasized that we should forget the things in the past that hold us back and keep running our race. My friend did this by celebrating small victories; for example, the clearing of one table top of clutter or loading and unloading the dishwasher. These small accomplishments became times of thanksgiving.

When my friend felt overwhelmed by what lay ahead, she remembered “I can do”and “one thing I do”  and moved forward. These two verses kept her focused on the Lord and the word of God provided encouragement.  Habits don’t change quickly, but she kept going and relied on the One, who gave her the strength. When we fail–and we all do–get up, try again and ask the Lord to help you persevere.

Write one of the two Scriptures on an index card and tape it to your message board.

Lord Jesus, I look to You for the strength to press on in every area of life.

Thank You for the courage to keep moving forward.

Copyright © 2019: Time Stealer: Author Glenda Shouse: All Rights Reserved

 

Meet Our Contributor

GLENDA SHOUSE

Glenda Shouse is a devotion writer. She is published at Christian Devotions Ministries, PresbyCan, The Upper Room, and VineWords: Devotions and More. She is working alongside friends to complete her first devotional book entitled, Love-Knots: Stories of Faith, Family, and Friendships.

Glenda’s prayer shawl ministry, Three-Strand Cord, focuses on imparting hope to ladies going through difficult times. Each recipient is gifted with a hand-crocheted or knitted prayer shawl.  When possible, Glenda delivers these shawls personally, and prays for each individual.

Those who know Glenda well, are aware of her gifting as a prayer warrior. She is a powerhouse of prayer, because she has a close relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. Glenda is passionate about praying.

In her spare time, Glenda enjoys her role as “Grammy” to her two grandsons. She also enjoys reading, crocheting, and knitting.

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