People of Procrastination

           

           While attending college, as a non-traditional student, since I had been out of the classroom setting for thirty years, one of the things that amazed me most was how students procrastinated on homework assignments, studying for tests and meeting other deadlines.  There was even one occasion where a young student called for information regarding a scholarship form that was due on the day she made her inquiry.  She still hadn’t written the two required essays, even though she’d had the form for several weeks.

            Procrastination seems to be the “norm” for the society or culture we live in! We are quick to stall, postpone, or put off what we should do, even when we know something needs to be completed (or even started), and time is of the essence. This mind set is so ingrained in us, there are professionals, throughout the land who offer a solution to the problem.  There are even those who offer hypnosis to rid us of this dilemma!  While the “experts” are certain they can offer results, they are quick to add this behavior is primarily a bad habit, and must be targeted daily for any hope of long term success.

            This isn’t a new condition or challenge.  The Bible has plenty to say on the issue of procrastination! God’s Word describes “a double-sided man”--- implying the inability to make decisions!  Other scripture discusses fear, that can cause procrastination, but begs the question, “What are you afraid of?” Laziness is yet another Biblical reason a person may put things off.  Our society is hinged on “instant and easy.”  Besides these elements, there are still more.

            Paul instructs Timothy in scripture, to always be prepared to tell the story of his faith.  He doesn’t want Timothy to hold back, delay in any way, or procrastinate in doing this duty.  Further, Paul says there will be a time when men will not listen to God’s word.  I believe we have reached this point, as our country’s courts continue to demean God’s laws in “the spirit of tolerance.” 

            As Believers, we are all “Timothy.”  It is our responsibility to tell the story of Christ aggressively in whatever form that may take.  Some are wonderful charismatic speakers, others sing of God’s word, while others teach, preach or even write.  

The time has come when our country is daily turning a deaf ear to all God’s laws and goodness.  We must not be like the college students who wait until the night before a test to study, fill out forms after the deadline, or otherwise procrastinate in doing the assigned tasks.  We must further His kingdom by being prepared to correct, rebuke, encourage and give careful instruction to those around us who don’t know the love of Jesus.

I encourage you to evaluate your level of procrastination.  How often do you put off tasks you find unappealing? Do you postpone those things you fear, or simply have no energy for or don’t enjoy?  Do you stall, instead of taking action, when your faith is questioned? How do you respond?