“My Son, thou has still many things to learn, which thou hast not well learned yet.”

What are they, Lord?

The Imitation of Christ by Thomas A. Kempis, The First Book, page 65)

 There is so much we have yet to learn. Much of life will require constant learning, exposing myself to information, knowledge, and experiences which will cause stretching and growth. This will only occur as we remain willing to be taught and have the knowledge imparted to us. 

The question each day then becomes,  “What are those things, Lord? What would You have us to learn today?”

We must learn to not get distracted, as even good things can become a distraction from the best things that He places before us and calls us to do. Not everything that gets us excited, or seemingly is an exciting opportunity, may be what He would necessarily call us to do.

We need to ask, “Is this Your will for me at this time?”

“You say, I am allowed to do anything but not everything is good for you. And even though, “I am allowed to do anything,” I must not become a slave to anything.”
(1 Corinthians 6:12, NLT)

“You say, “I am allowed to do anything” – but not everything is good for you. You say, “I am allowed to do anything” – but not everything is beneficial.” (1 Corinthians 10:23, NLT)

Twice Paul brings the same exhortation to the early believers, and to us. Good desires can bring about a distraction from God’s best for us.

In these passages, Paul is writing concerning whether the early believers taking liberties in their conduct and then in their diets. The heart of this issue emphasizes that our actions, above all, must be in consideration of others. All that we do must be motivated from a heart of love – first and foremost for God, and then for others .

Good desires can bring about a distraction from God’s best for us. Perhaps the questions we need to be asking as opportunities present themselves are:

• Will this be beneficial, or profitable, in my life?
• Will this be beneficial, or profitable, in the Kingdom?
• Is this good or best, in the eyes of God?

Our days here are short. Numbered. Fleeting. May we use them wisely to the glory and honor of our Lord.

“Your days at the most cannot be very long, so use them to the best of your ability for the glory of God and the benefit of your generation.” (William Booth)

Today I am joining … Grace Moments and #ChasingCommunity and Heart Encouragement Thursday and Tune In Thursday .