A few weeks ago I attended a ministry luncheon at which the speaker presented “Protecting Your Roots – Being Strong Emotionally and Relationally.” Intriguing topic. I wrote furiously all the while telling myself, “yes, I need this. Write, write, write, yes, yes yes!”
Basically I was hearing what I already knew … just say “no” when I have too much on my plate, too many demands on my time, too many people who need contacting. The speaker reminded me that I’m not irreplaceable and that I need to check my motivation (am I doing this for God or for “man”). Others will wait for me or find someone else to meet their needs. She quoted Jon Acuff as saying, “If you say no and they react in anger, they have just confirmed you have made the right decision.”
I was also reminded that Jesus said “no” quite often. Jesus said no to inappropriate behavior and He practiced self-care mentally, emotionally, physically, relationally, and spiritually. He led by example.
This luncheon and speaker helped me to re-focus so priorities stay priorities: family, friends, relationships. Believe me, the older I get, I’m learning relationships become more and more important.
“Do you think I speak this strongly in order to manipulate crowds? Or curry favor with God? Or get popular applause? If my goal was popularity, I wouldn’t bother being Christ’s slave. Know this—I am most emphatic here, friends—this great Message I delivered to you is not mere human optimism. I didn’t receive it through the traditions, and I wasn’t taught it in some school. I got it straight from God, received the Message directly from Jesus Christ.”
Galatians 1:10-12
