A.S.A.P.

In the rush of life, with so many things to accomplish and so seemingly little time to do all we desire, we get anxious. We watch our clocks and keep glancing at our calendars, thinking of all our appointments or the next activity of the day. [My wife will sometimes ask me what time it is right after she has seen me look at my watch. I usually have to look again. She often accuses me of not looking at my watch to see what time it is (since I just looked and couldn't remember), but to see how much time I have before the next thing I need to do.] Then we focus on our limitations and wonder about what we can accomplish as some in this world try to discourage our good work. Faced with deadlines and so much that begs to be accomplished A.S.A.P. (as soon as possible), we can easily begin to stress. What are we to do?

Every time I read through Nehemiah, I am impressed by this great humble servant of God and motivator of others toward a good work. In spite of opposition, put downs, and even having his life threatened, he persevered. He was involved in a work some said could not be accomplished. (note Nehemiah 4:2-3) What was key to such an attitude for the work that had been put in his heart? I believe it was his continual PRAYER connection with God. It appears before doing anything or even responding to others, Nehemiah would PRAY either within himself or verbally. (i.e. Nehemiah 1:4; 2:4; 4:9; 5:19; 6:9 & 14; 13:14, 22, 29, & 31)

Paul urged. . .
"(6) DO NOT BE ANXIOUS ABOUT ANYTHING, BUT IN EVERYTHING BY PRAYER AND SUPPLICATION with thanksgiving LET YOUR REQUESTS BE MADE KNOWN TO GOD. (7) And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." ( Philippians 4:6-7 ESV)

We need to give new meaning to that expression A.S.A.P. Let it remind us to be like Nehemiah and "Always Say A Prayer"!

Note the following clipping I recently came across:

There's work to do, deadlines to meet. You've got no time to spare,
but as you hurry and scurry -- A.S.A.P. (Always Say A Prayer).
In the midst of family chaos, "quality time" is rare. Do your best;
let God do the rest -- A.S.A.P. (Always Say A Prayer).
It may seem like your worries are more than you can bear.
Slow down and take a breather -- A.S.A.P. (Always Say A Prayer).
God knows how stressful life is; He wants to ease our care.
He'll respond to all our needs -- A.S.A.P. (Always Say A Prayer).

"In everything", may we remember to always start with PRAYER. Our life will then be guarded by a peace that surpasses understanding.

Have a great day HAVING TAKEN TIME FOR PRAYER!
Carl

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