Take Action and Then Do It

When I assign students a task or assignment in class, I am confident that they are able to do that which I have asked. It’s not even a question in my head whether or not they can do it. I know that which I have asked is reasonable and within their capability or I would never have asked them to do it. Will it be a challenge for them? Yes. Will it cause them to think and labor over their task or assignment? Yes. Will it cause them to struggle just enough to make them grow academically? Yes. I command them to do that which is in the realm of their ability. Am I watching over the process? Yes. If they get stuck, will I step in? Yes.

It has hit me more than once while reading the Bible how often we are commanded to “do” or “be”. They are directives. They are things, as believers, that we have been empowered to do by the active presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. We don’t need to wait for some big sign or wait for some ethereal light from Heaven to super-zap us with the glowing warmth of motivation. The Word simply says to “do this” or “be that” which means it is in the realm of our capability.

Here’s an example: “…put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.” Ephesians 4:22-24

Here we are told to put off “the old man”, put on “the new man”; be “renewed in…your mind”. This means we have the ability to follow through with these directions; it simply requires action on our part. The rest of Ephesians 4 and into chapter 5 continue the commands—put away lying (yes, white lies count), speak truth, don’t steal, be kind, walk in love, don’t let someone deceive you…the list is quite large, but, again, they are all ACTIONS…actions that we have the capacity to perform.

The whole Bible is full of these commands and commissions to take action—be strong, don’t be afraid, have courage, make disciples… If this is so, then it begs the question, why don’t we follow through on our part as often as we should? Why do we waste time whining to the Lord, “I can’t do it. It’s too hard. I don’t know how. I don’t have the ability. I’m not good at it. I don’t want to.” Is the Lord not there overseeing the process ready to step in if we need the help? Of course He is. His Word confirms that He is indeed there ready to help.

Today, join me…let’s self-reflect and consider where we need to take action and then do it.