Chillin'?

My wife and I kept active the first week of our recent vacation as we had three of our grandchildren (one at a time) camp with us for a day and night. During the second week of camping (once the tent and the rest of our campsite were set up) I probably did more sitting than I customarily do even on vacation -- and it was good. Getting a break from a busy schedule and being able to relax a while was what the mind and body needed. Even Jesus acknowledged the need. (i.e. Mark 6:31) Besides time spent sitting in our campsite, at least twice we carried our folding chairs to set up in the rocks at the water’s edge of the Bogachiel River along which we had camped. I even commented to my wife one afternoon how nice it was to just “chill by the Bogachiel.”

“Chillin’.” “Hangin’ out.” “Kickin’ back.” Sometimes it is nice to just do nothing. Nevertheless, whatever we call it, it is not the thing for every day. Someone has said, “Now take the word ‘indolence’. It makes laziness seem classy.” [source: calendar quote] Taking a break is one thing, but laziness is an entirely different issue. We must never lose sight of the need for personal EFFORT toward spiritual growth and the responsibilities of SERVICE we have as followers of Jesus Christ.

Note the epitome of laziness described by Solomon in two proverbs.

“The sluggard buries his hand in the dish and WILL NOT EVEN BRING IT BACK TO HIS MOUTH.” ( Proverbs 19:24 ESV)

…and…

“The sluggard buries his hand in the dish; IT WEARS HIM OUT TO BRING IT BACK TO HIS MOUTH.” ( Proverbs 26:15 ESV)

One of my personal frustrations in ministry has been to see those who just don’t seem to grow spiritually. Because they appear to make no EFFORT to do some studying themselves or take advantage of the opportunities provided for study together, they continue to be in need of being hand fed. With regard to Christian maturity, we need to be willing to put forth some EFFORT (i.e. 2 Peter 1:5-7) We also need to accept our role as servants of Christ, willing to do what He has called us to do in service to the glory of God.

Writing to the church at Thessalonica, Paul exhorted…
“And we urge you, brothers, ADMONISH THE IDLE, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.” ( 1 Thessalonians 5:14 ESV)

Yes, patience is needed even when admonishing the idle. Idleness or laziness is not what Christianity is about. Our Christian walk is to be marked by serious EFFORT toward spiritual growth and a willingness to be involved in ACTIVE SERVICE to the glory of God. Remember the symbol of Christianity is not an easy chair.

Have a great day BEING AN ACTIVE DISCIPLE OF JESUS!
Carl

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