“Whatever you do [whatever your task may be], work from the soul [that is, put in your very best effort], as [something done] for the Lord and not for men…” (Colossians 3:23 Amplified Bible)
In a dialogue with one of my faithful Deacons, he mentioned that we, Christians, use the word “try” too much. I imagine he has heard many “try” statements, just like you and I have heard. “I’m going to “try’ to do better.” “I’m going to ‘try’ and be there, but no promises.” “I’m going to ‘try’ and stop my bad habit.” “I’m going to ‘try’ to convert what I hear taught and turn it in to action.” “I’m going to ‘try’ to forgive and try harder to forget.” “I’m going to ‘try’ to attend.”
The Deacon wisely stated, in so many words, we should just remove the word “try” and just say what we are going to and put forth some effort. I agreed and since he made that statement, I have made the effort not to use the word “try.” Think about our use of the word “try.” “Try” is at times just a word that disguises that one is not going to place a priority on doing something. “Try” is just a word to make someone else feel like their admonition or words of correction were heard and will result in positive, improved behavior, but often no commitment to change one’s conduct will really be made. “Try” is often an excuse given in advance to explain a failing. We feel off the hook because we do not make a concrete promise when we say “try.” “Try” is used as a conversation ending word, intending to hush the mouth of someone who is just imparting words of wisdom found in the Scriptures. “Try” in some cases means nothing because one’s mind is already made up and, in fact, there will be no trying whatsoever. I agree with the Deacon! We should just remove “try” and just say what we are going to do and put forth the effort. As the Scripture says above, not just any effort, but “your very best effort.” Effort beats “try!”
This morning I wanted to see what others had to say on the subject. Here are three quotes for you to ponder on.
“Continuous effort– not strength or intelligence – is the key to unlocking our potential.” (Winston Churchill)
“A man of words, and not of deeds, is like a garden full of weeds.” (English Proverb)
“Hope is wishing for a thing to come true. Faith is believing it will come true. Work is making it come true.” (Dr. Norman Vincent Peale)
“Try,” no that’s not the right word. Let me say it better, eliminating “try.” Put forth your best effort today and let your light shine for the sake of others! Keep the closing verse in mind today and apply it to yourself! Be blessed!
“I don’t mean to say I am perfect. I haven’t learned all I should even yet, but I keep working toward that day when I will finally be all that Christ saved me for and wants me to be.” (Philippians 3:12 Living Bible)
Still committed to the climb,
Mark L. King