Today’s Scripture: Luke 13-16

In Joppa there was a disciple named [Dorcas], who was always doing good and helping the poor. – Acts 9:36

One of the first things we seem to learn in life is to make excuses for not doing what we should. It reminds me of the three people the Lord talked about in Luke 14:16-20.

A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, “Come, for everything is now ready.” But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, “I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.” Another said, “I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.” Still another said, “I just got married, so I can’t come.”

One lame excuse after another. What good businessman would buy land he had not seen? Who would test oxen after buying them instead of before?

Now, Christian, let me ask you, what have you been putting off for one excuse or another? Have you decided to be more diligent in memorizing the Word of God, but you keep putting it off? Have you vowed to witness to your neighbors and invite them to church? Have you talked about establishing the practice of morning prayer and Bible reading? It’s so easy to get sidetracked with other things and never finish what we set out to do. And whenever we talk about it, we always have a new excuse why we haven’t done it yet.

The truth here is, when God issues the invitation, there is no good excuse for refusing to accept. Whatever God is calling you to do, do it.

Prayer

Lord, I want to start a schedule of spending more time with You. Help me to take the first step today. Amen.

To Ponder

What spiritual discipline have you been telling the Lord you would get back to soon, but you haven’t yet found the time?

 

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