We have heard the question thousands of times, “How are you doing?” Our answer is often the same, “I’m fine.” But in the last several years, there has been an additional comment added to this standard answer, “I’m really busy, but I’m fine!”
In some circles, business seems to be a badge of honor. Even among my friends who are pastors, it seems we like to compare notes on how full our schedules have become. But is this a good idea? More importantly, is this the best plan for a man of God to live?
I love saying “yes” when people want or need me to do something for them. This is part of ministry, serving the needs of others. However, a few years ago, someone shared with me a statement that has caused me to add a bit of caution to my willing spirit. The lesson I learned was this, “To say yes to something means you must say no to something else!” When your glass is full, you cannot add more water without it spilling over the edge.
Accepting this as truth results in one of two outcomes. I can choose to manage my time well and pick and choose what goes on my calendar, and what must stay off. This often requires some hard decisions because my opportunities are all good and will either bring me fulfillment or help someone else, or both. The other option is to try and do it all. The problem with this decision is that the principle stated above is still true. When you add to your schedule, something else gets pushed off. If you leave this to chance, you may end up with some unintended consequences. You may find things that were once important to you are no longer part of your life because they have been overrun by other, more urgent, or more enjoyable events.
Unfortunately, some men have allowed these unintended consequences to impact time with their kids or the time necessary to keep their marriage strong. Others have seen their productivity lessen with their work or watched their health deteriorate when they have not taken the time for self-care.
These are all tragic, but one of the most dangerous “NOs” we unintentionally (or maybe intentionally for some) utter is in our spiritual journey. How often do we think, “I don’t have time to spend in the Scripture today.” Or, “God will understand if he doesn’t hear from me in prayer.” When we let our business push us away from extended, quality time with our Lord, we are walking on dangerous ground.
We know Satan is a roaring lion who wishes to devour our spirits. But he also masquerades as an angel of light, making his destructive plans look like good things. You put these two characteristics together and we are very vulnerable to his attacks. We have only one defense. The Apostle James gives us this exceptionally good advice in 4:8, “Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
When we become too busy for God, we are too busy. We have a choice. We can say no to some of the other things in our life to free time to build our relationship with God, or we can deal with the unintended consequences that come with ignoring God. We know which is better. Choose wisely.