Life Together

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Inertia is inactivity; the idea that without outside intervention an object will remain motionless or on the same path. The sluggard is a scriptural example of spiritual inertia. Proverbs 21:25 says, "The desire of the sluggard kills him, for his hands refuse to labor." He desires change but doesn't act. Tomorrow is his Savior but everyday he wakes up to today. Proverbs 26:16 says, "The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who can answer sensibly." In the midst of the slow death of inactivity, he's deceived. He rationalizes his inaction in order to maintain his "tomorrow" action plan.

Initiative, on the other hand, is action, often at a cost, motivated by God and for the good of others. The ultimate example of initiative in scripture is God's initiative in our lives; His unsolicited determination to save us by sending His Son to the cross.

The danger of inactivity in our leadership is that we are never neutral in our growth; we're either making progress and growing or we're drifting. Inactivity equals drift. Inactivity equals disobedience. Inactivity equals consequences. And the consequences effect more than just us. Over time, we tempt and provoke our wives to sin (anxiety, fear, anger, bitterness) as they bear the weight of resposibility that they were not designed to carry, not to mention their pleas for help that may fall on deaf ears which only adds to their frustration. Our wives and children are also deprived of the blessings and growth that come from Godly leadership and discipleship in the family. This isn't an option, though we may view it that way. Scripture is clear.

Let's take the bull by the horns and commit to a vigilent attack on our selfishness and love of ease. Let's take action. God requires it of us but He also gives us EVERYTHING we need for life and Godliness. He never requires something of us without supplying the grace. But we have to step out in faith, trusting that He's faithful; that as we take action, His promise to sustain and give us strength in our weakness is true.

1 Comment

Great thoughts Mr. Slack! I especially liked the reminder that, if we are not moving forward and growing, we are drifting.
Thanks.

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