Hurry Up And Wait
Slow Down And Act Hastily.
Some of these phrases are comical in some respects. While we might be impressed to make haste in our efforts to be someplace, or get something done, the people on the other side of the window seem to be working at a different pace. It is either one or the other in our daily routines.
Some things to consider concerning our spiritual lives is the fact that there must be a sense of urgency in telling others about their spiritual condition. As long as someone remains in a sinful state, they are lost, and if they die, they will go to hell. Since we do not know the day or hour when our Lord will appear again in the sky, we had best be prepared, and those who are lost do not need to procrastinate.
Having said that, there is also the condition where we jump the gun so to speak. Often we are quick to assume something about someone. We might chide someone or deride them when we do not have all the facts. Once we get the facts, it is too late, and we are either embarrassed or find we have to swallow our pride. We should apologize, but that is often hard to do. We are also quick to make judgments about people based upon their skin color, length of their hair, or the tattoos and body jewelry they might have. Try to remember that Jesus died on the cross for these souls as well. When Jesus was teaching the parable of the soils, He said the sower planted the seed everywhere. He did not take the time to judge whether a soil would work or not. That also is not our place to judge someone as unacceptable to the Lord, or assume that they might not be interested in their soul, and that they would not listen to you. Perhaps your words and example are what they need to see the need to seek the Lord for their salvation.
God uses us even if we are unaware He is using and guiding us to some lost soul. We are to let our light shine, and God uses that light to show the lost the way.
Remember, that if you do not do the works God has prepared you for, He will find you useless for His purpose, and you just might find yourself in the place you do not want to go.
Some of the sins of the flesh have to deal with how we treat others. "...idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying..." (Galatians 5:19-21) "Anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech" (Colossians 3:8). There are other lists that have similar prohibitions for Christians to be aware of.
Remember that perseverance, patience and longsuffering are qualities that God also possesses, and it would be wise for us to learn and practice these (2 Peter 1:6; 3:9).
Another problem we face in our society is we make our children grow up too fast. As a result they get involved in sexual activity much too soon. Our children are taught to look sexy, and appealing to the opposite sex much too early. Parents allow the children to wear makeup and clothing much too mature for the children. Without a solid foundation of Christian teaching and principles, our children are forced to grow into a modern, politically correct society, where the people set the standards instead of God.
Once again, let us be reminded that our time on earth is not fixed. We are running out of time. Some will procrastinate and be unprepared to meet their God. Others will just give up and stick with fulfilling their lusts and pleasures. Some will not care about God, and many will deny that God even exists. Many will reject the Christ who died for them, and will turn their back on God. This will result in eternal torment for those who do not know God and those who do not follow the Lord's commands (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9).
God has provided the way of salvation. Our time is running out, and we must make haste to share the message of the Christ. But let us also be patient with those who do not seem to grow spiritually as we wish they would. Perhaps the Lord will be patient with them as well. One thing is for sure; if you do not let your light shine, God will not be pleased with you.
By Carey Scott

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