I have come to ask myself if I really mean it when I say "I didn't do it because I was busy", or it is just an excuse. When we say "I didn't do it because I was busy", we are externalizing the cause of the problem. We are implying, "It is not me, it is my situation causing the problem." It is true that there are many who are truly busy and have to bear more than what they should. But most of us find ourselves busy at the last minute not because of the situation but because of poor time management and procrastination. If we admit that our failure was actually because of poor time management, we are internalizing the problem. We take the responsibility for our failures and do better next time rather than blaming it on being "BUSY". There will be hope for change.

The wisest person in the Bible, King Solomon, hilariously puts it this way, "The lazy man says, 'There is a lion in the road! A fierce lion is in the streets!' ” (Proverbs 26:13). The lazy person an has an excuse even before checking the situation. It is not just a lion it is a fierce lion in the street. He is not even going to attempt because it is not safe to go out. Making excuses may become a pattern in our lives because they serve as easy escapes. They are like addictive substances, quick solutions. It is not difficult to fool other people because they can't search our hearts, but not God. “I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, To give to each person according to his ways, According to the results of his deeds" (Jer 17:10 NASB).

Excuses can be a big challenge our ministry as well. In fact, it may be worse in the ministry because in the work place, we may lose our job for procrastinating or not finishing on time. But in the church, the most that would happen is apologizing for being late or not doing it. Yet, if we believe that God is the Supreme Power in the Universe, doesn't He deserve the best of our time and effort? Next time you get take an assignment in the Church, give it your best. Start early and try to accomplish more than what is expected by the grace of God. Pray and meditate about it. God is faithful to His faithful ministers. "God is always fair. He will remember how you helped His people in the past and how you are still helping them. You belong to God, and He won't forget the love you have shown His people" (Heb 6:10 CEV).

Reflection

Were there times you needed to remind yourself that you need to take your ministry seriously? How did you overcome your challenges?

Prayer

How would you like God to help you in your ministry? In what areas do you need Hist strength?