No More Routine
Well, we are now a little over a month into Xmin, and I can say that I am finally starting to get in a groove (I was initially having trouble juggling ministry, school, and work). I am beginning to develop a little routine that helps me get everything done, and hopefully done well. Look out consistency, here I come!
I was recently talking to God about these things, saying something along the lines of, “These are the things I do, I am trying to do well. This is the time I set aside for you. Here is where I accomplish other things. Isn’t this good? I’m diligent, right?” And God’s response to me was this: “Diligence isn’t routine.” Ouch. There you have it, this routine that I was so proudly telling God about, isn’t what He’s looking for. Sure, He wants me to be productive and have a groove- but He doesn’t want me to have a routine. See, routines are so very dangerous. When you are doing things the same way all the time, you are at great risk of becoming lazy. “Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically (Romans 12:11).” Laziness is a sin, and I must avoid it.
I escape laziness by moving away from consistent routine; and towards, consistent improvement. I must turn the “auto pilot” off, and focus on obeying God and serving Him with everything I have. Everyday should hold more growth, challenges, and love for Jesus.
As comfortable as routine can be, it can be in my life no more.
