PATIENCE VERSUS PROCRASTINATION - 30

David confesses in Psalm 40:1 says, "I waited patiently for the Lord." Jesus tells the story in Matthews 21:30 of the guy who said, "I go, sir: and went not."

Men, we must be patient with one another. We must be patient with our wife and children. We are also exhorted many times in the Scriptures to "wait patiently for the Lord."

Patience is a virtue of love that many of us men lack (1 Corinthians 13: 4). We need patience especially when we hear someone is speaking false rumors about someone we love, or even false accusations about ourselves.

I am quick to react and have learned too often that I only made things worse, especially when my impatience caused me to act too quickly in anger. It has taken me a long time to learn that it is far better to take some time to cool down a notch or two, gather all the facts possible, and pray for wisdom that comes from above. James 3Z:17 says, "But the wisdom that is from above is FIRST pure and peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace."

On the other hand, patience is often used as an excuse for procrastination, which is simply putting off an action that should be taken at the appropriate time. For example, a child needs to be disciplined, but the parents procrastinate because of being overly patient or tolerant. This is not godly patience. Do not be deceived. Loving and appropriate spanking is ordained of God and the child is often abused for the lack of it. This is a time proven fact that is clearly mentioned in the divinely inspired Word of God.*

Godly parents who genuinely love their children will not be child abusers by using the rod when it is deemed appropriate discipline. Using the rod is a proof that the parents loves his child (Hebrews 12:5-8).

We procrastinate in many different ways. We procrastinate by not witnessing and sharing the way of salvation with others. We procrastinate about reading God's Word, as well as prayer. In fact, in every area of life and in every decision we make, we can keep on putting it off for another time. Don't offer the excuse that you are just being patient. Being a laid back person can be an excuse for procrastination.

The reason why so many things are not done, or remain uncompleted, is because of weakness or procrastination.

Be encouraged.

Colin Campbell

SCRIPTURES REGARDING DISCIPLINE:`
* Read Proverbs 13:24; 19:18; 22:15; 23:13; 29:15, 17.