I’ve been saying, “I”m busy.” A LOT.  I probably shouldn’t say it to people because when I hear it from someone, I think, “Yeah, join the club.”  All of these “to do’s” suck up life like a really good vacuum. 

I think amongst all of the whining I’ve been doing, God has shared a few things with me this week from four very different but wise sources. I want to share them so it’s in black and white, and I don’t forget them the next time I get wrapped up in the “to do’s” and what I should do.

The first came from a friend who was sharing the sermon from her Sunday service.

“God is omnipresent.  You are not.  You cannot be everywhere as much as you would like to be.  You cannot help with everything.  There is no need for you to feel guilty because God does not expect you to be omnipresent.  He has given you amazing gifts that He wants you to use for Him and His glory. You are filled with the Holy Spirit, and He will give you the strength to carry out His purpose for your life.  He will give you the energy and passion you need to do His will.

The second came from a seasoned pastor that I ran into in the hallway of our church.

“God does not work out of guilt.  Do what you love.  Love what you do.”

The third came from a someone that has become dear to me. She is humble and kind.

“Don’t get overwhelmed and think about what you need to get done.  Focus on what has been accomplished through Christ’s power and His faithfulness to see you through your commitments.  You will realize He will see you through every phase and job He has for you.”

And, finally, in my time with the Lord today, this stuck out like a sore thumb.

“Many cultures today place a very high value on self-sufficiency.  Do you believe that you are self-sufficient?  The truth is that no one is sufficient in himself.  2 Corinthians 3:5 says that our only sufficiency is from God.  Whether you recognize it or not, your ability to do anything, including minister to others, comes from God alone.  Thank Him that you do not have to depend on yourself, but can rely on His strength and power for everything you do!”

“Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God.”   2 Corinthians 3:5

These were all such random comments and God just wrapped it up for me this morning.  There is a bunch of junk in life we have to do (laundry, bills, cleaning…)  But, then, there is a little bit of that  extra time we get to fill with the things God created us to do – the things we love.  Don’t waste that time with guilt and boring obligations.  Honor Him with the gifts He has given you.