We cleaned out our 15 year old's bedroom this past weekend. What an amazing feat! The stuff that accumulates is incredible. Some stuff is great memories. We laughed at some of the elementary papers. And the pictures we found were priceless. But most stuff is trash.
As I was getting the trash ready to take out to the garage, I was struck by a common occurrence among people (me included) who fall into the trap of thinking they need to be all things to all people. I was trying to fit more junk into a bag that was already full. Stuff was falling all around on the floor (much to my dog's delight).
Ever been too busy? One little disappointment sets you off and you wonder where your anger came from? Me too. Often we're asking ourselves, "How did I get this busy?"
How do we get so busy?
Perhaps we like being needed. Or maybe we think that just because an opportunity presents itself, that's a sign we're to jump at the chance. Saying "no" may hurt the other person. Saying "yes" feels good (at least at first).
What happens when we're too busy?
When we're involved in more than the day allows, we start to become drained. We are so busy we forget our priorities. We lose focus on what's really important. We may start treating those around us like objects to merely handle efficiently (not a good idea). Some of us get irritable. Then there's sleep loss, anxiety, and eventually depression, and so on.
What can we do about it?
- Learn to say "no". Just because an opportunity comes your way doesn't mean it requires your automatic "yes". Take some time to evaluate the opportunity. Is it reasonable? Is it within you gift mix? Is it something you feel God is asking you to do? Have you considered what you'll have to say "no" to in exchange for the "yes"?
- Find your contentment in being centered in Christ. Stay close to Him. Don't allow the feelings of being needed nudge His place at the throne of your life.
Keep your load to your capacity and you'll be Serving Strong!
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