Hello, dear readers. Today, we’re going to delve into a topic that’s close to our hearts and minds: the dangers of waiting for perfection before acting on the guidance we receive from the Lord God. We’ll explore this concept through the lens of biblical teachings, personal anecdotes, and the wisdom of spiritual leaders. Remember, this is not a call to act rashly, but rather a reminder that God often works through our imperfect actions.
The Parable of the Unjust Steward (Luke 16:1-13)
In the Gospel of Luke, we find the Parable of the Unjust Steward. This parable teaches us about faithfulness and stewardship, but it also underscores the importance of acting promptly on the guidance we receive. The steward in the parable, knowing he would be fired, acted swiftly and wisely to secure his future. Jesus commends him, not for his dishonesty, but for his shrewdness in using worldly wealth to gain friends for himself in heaven.
Key takeaway: God values our prompt action, even if our methods are imperfect.
Moses and the Burning Bush (Exodus 3:1-4:17)
Moses, a man with a speech impediment, was called by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Despite his self-doubt and excuses, God insisted, “Who gave man his mouth? Who makes him deaf or mute? Who gives him sight or makes him blind? Is it not I, the Lord?” (Exodus 4:11, NIV). God didn’t wait for Moses to become perfect; He used Moses as he was, imperfections and all.
Key takeaway: God uses us where we are, not where we wish we were.
The Call to Action
Waiting for perfection can be a form of procrastination, a subtle resistance to God’s will. It can also be a sign of fear—fear of failure, fear of judgment, or fear of the unknown. But as 2 Timothy 1:7 tells us, “God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control” (ESV).
Action Steps
- Pray and listen: Ask God for clarity and guidance. He promises, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13, NIV).
- Act in faith: Trust that God will use your imperfect actions for His glory. As Romans 12:2 reminds us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will” (NIV).
- Learn and grow: Every action is an opportunity to learn and grow. Don’t be discouraged by mistakes; instead, use them as stepping stones to greater understanding and wisdom.
Further Reading
- Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
- The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
- Decision Making and the Will of God by Garry Friesen and J. Robin Maxson
References:
- BibleGateway. (2011). Bible Gateway passage: Luke 16:1-13 – New International Version. Retrieved from <https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+16:1-13&version=NIV>
- BibleGateway. (2011). Bible Gateway passage: Exodus 3:1-4:17 – New International Version. Retrieved from <https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus+3:1-4:17&version=NIV>
- BibleGateway. (2011). Bible Gateway passage: 2 Timothy 1:7 – English Standard Version. Retrieved from <https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+1:7&version=ESV>
- BibleGateway. (2011). Bible Gateway passage: Jeremiah 29:13 – New International Version. Retrieved from <https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+29:13&version=NIV>
- BibleGateway. (2011). Bible Gateway passage: Romans 12:2 – New International Version. Retrieved from <https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+12:2&version=NIV>
In Truth and Mercy,
The Lords blessings be upon you,
T
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