“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your request be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6 NASB)
Sunday, I heard a powerful message from our Pastor, entitled “Put the Pen Down!” As always, God sends a specific message for a specific purpose, specifically for us as individuals. The morning message spoke to me because like Lot who tried to write his own story as opposing to consult with the Lord and waiting on Him for direction, that very Sunday evening, I found myself, like most of us, surrendering to my indoctrination since childhood. I was trying to excel in problem solving, execute greatly in figuring things out, easily make wise decisions, and engage in demonstrating competency. At one point I consulted with my marketing and technological expert in Los Angeles about an idea which I think would work from an entrepreneur perspective, while simultaneously feeding the Lord’s sheep. I’m tell you, I had it all figured out! But look what I forgot. I forgot the portions of the morning message that spoke specifically to me as the pastor preached, “Put the Pen Down.” Let me share something before I continue. The “Pastor” is my oldest son, and my Marketing/Technological Expert in Los Angeles in my second youngest son. Thank God for both of them.
But, admittedly, unashamedly I will tell you with complete transparency that I was just like many parishioners who hear the preached word, but don’t put it in to action. That’s how we do! You see, I initially ignored the specific message for me and tried to determine what’s my next destination in my role of serving the Lord and expanding the kingdom here on earth. Like the title says, “That’s How We Do!” My expert consultant advised me to do what I should have done before formulating a plan; a plan that including detailed steps and a strategic summary. He echoed words that I have often told Him, “Pray on it before you do anything.” My pastor, once he read this today, I’m sure he will reinforce the point he reiterated clearly earlier that morning, “Put the pen down!”
Even though I am the father and they are my children, I took their advice and put my idea on the shelf until I consult with the Lord and wait for His direction. I will just have to consciously continue to work on my patience and practice the admonition that I have shared with others, referring to the opening and closing verses.
Now before I bless you, let’s be honest. I’m not the only one reading this who has tried to write their own story without the benefit Divine assistance. Right? Perhaps you have done the same. Well, hard as it might be to do, “Put the Pen Down” and “Pray” when you are trying to do it all on your own. Now, friend, please don’t read this as a journal-type of entry but look at it as something to help you on your journey through life. Meditate on it! Be blessed!
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your path straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6 NASB)
Committed to the climb,
Mark L. King
That happens to me, too. I have something all thought out before I realize where is God in this? I have to put down the pen and allow God to write the story. Thanks be to God.
Thanks for sharing. I think it happens to us all. But you are right, we have to “put the pen down.” Yes, thank God! Praise God!