After meeting with a young man several times, listening to his personal and marital challenges, as well as his inability to figure out how to deal with the issues, I knew it was time to help him focus. I asked “Bob” to think about and write down the issues in his life that, if corrected, would make everything wonderful. His replies were the typical, career, finances, better communication, dealing with stress/anger and a better relationship with God. I honestly believed they were issues he wanted to address. Over a period of time, however, nothing seemed to change. Frustrations increased and little seem to be resolved. We had great conversations, explored his aspirations and laid plans on the table. One dream was making significant contributions to several ministries that he cared about. However, he never seemed to have anything when it came time to give to them. When I asked if he had earmarked part of his tithe to them, he said he wasn’t able to tithe for this reason, that reason and others.
To be honest, “Bob” is like people you and I both know with solid beliefs, caring hearts and great intentions but never seem to be able to finish much. Please understand that statement is not a condemnation, but what seems to be reality for some, more than others. Earlier this year we talked about the role of risk and fear keeping us from our goals. Today, I want you to consider a story that may perhaps help you understand how an individual who finds themselves in these circumstances may appear to God and others. Consider the story of the father who asked his two sons to work in the vineyard. (Matthew 21:28 – 32) One said he wouldn’t but did, while the other said he would, but did not. Unlike some, I do not believe the second son blatantly lied. I feel he was like many people with good intentions, who was sidetracked by busyness, still hoping to pull it off. However, the reality is he did not do what he said he would. If we give him the benefit of a doubt and say his good intentions got diverted by interruptions, does it make him any less a liar before God and man? Unfortunately, the parable proclaims him a liar even though he may have been seen as a nice guy.
Today our society accepts a degree of “flakiness” and excuses it. My dad used to preach the concept that “a man is only as good as his word.” I honestly do not know if that was true in his generation or not. I have seen some who lived by the concept it in my lifetime. However, I believe it has always been critical for right standing with God. We can never forget that to get into the Kingdom we must think like children. As a matter of fact it may have been Christ who introduced the KISS principle when he said said “Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” (Matthew 5:37)
There is nothing wrong with big dreams or desire to help others. However, we must value our words and commitments so others will value them also. Proverbs 5:23 tells us that without discipline life’s circumstances can keep us from our potential, objectives, and into folly. Your words paint an image that God and others see as reality. Choose wisely.
Love Dad