I have important work to do!

I am a "Message Surfer."

I enjoy hitting several church websites and tuning in to a variety of weekly messages. One of my favorite is when my son preaches at his church. Last week I caught a message by Andy Stanley entitled "This OneThing." http://northpoint.org/messages/this-one-thing . He asked the question: "What is "one thing" that you could change tomorrow that would positively impact your life one year from now?" Only you know what that one thing is. It might deal with finances, stopping or starting something that you have been putting off, dealing with relationships or an unhealthy habit. You are the only one who knows that that is for you. So how do you keep committed to that one thing when statistics tell us that seldom do resolutions or well-intended changes last?
He tells the story of Nehemiah, who returns to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. He undertakes a successful campaign to restore the once- great city. Soon opposition sets in and the enemy warlords begin to plot against Nehemiah to ruin his building project. They invite Nehemiah to meet with them at a neighboring village. Nehemiah responds with: "I am carrying out a great work and I will not come down." He was focused on carrying out a mission he was committed to and would not be distracted or listen to frivolous rhetoric which would distract him from his purpose. After repeated invitations to distract, Nehemiah simply prays, "Now strengthen my hands." He prayed that God would give him strength to complete the great work he was given. You can read how the story turns out in Nehemiah 6.
What is causing you to "come down" from your passion - from what you know is right, listening or following? Addressing something that is hard to change teaches important lessons to our kids. Perhaps it is creating a new family habit that connects us to each other or draws us closer to Jesus. Whatever that "ONE THING" is, don't compromise, don't waiver, stay the course and pray that God would strengthen your resolve. Imagine how different your life might be in January 2013.