I think most of us can relate to what I call the “plague” of busyness. With the technology we have, it is so tempting to take on more and more responsibility. Technology gives us more time, and well, there are just so many ways to consume that time. It can be overwhelming, and at times, depressing.
As a Christian, I often find myself asking, “Is all this busyness really accomplishing anything? Do my work and schoolwork really bring God glory?” And many times, my immediate answer is a big fat NO. At the end of a crazy busy week, I often hear a little voice inside my head saying that all I do is pointless. When I don’t see immediate results, I get a bit hopeless. That may seem a bit extreme, but I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one who has felt that way.
First of all, I want to remind you (and myself) that God will be successful no matter what we do. I was reminded of this the other day while reading Acts. In Chapter 5, a few of the apostles are being questioned before the religious council because of their criminal activity (healing the sick, spreading the Gospel, and breaking out of jail with the help of an angel of God). The council decides to kill the apostles, but Gamaliel, a Pharisee who was “an expert in religious law and respected by all the people,” steps up. Although we can’t know 100% why he does, Gamaliel stops the council and reminds them that God is in control. He says, “If they are planning and doing these things merely on their own, it will soon be overthrown. 39 But if it is from God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God!”
I think that is one of the most comforting things I have ever read. No matter how busy I may be, God’s purposes will be accomplished. No matter how selfish or greedy I may act, God’s power will remain. And if I am seeking Him, I can have confidence that my actions will lead to His glory.
This is a simple thought, but I wanted to remind you all of how God really works.
Although we cannot fully understand how He works, I know that God values love. He commands us to love Him and others (Matthew 22:37-40), and we must remember that “We love each others[b] because he loved us first.” (1 John 4:19).
So no matter where you go or what you do, do it in love. Yes, I may be busy, but that does not mean I can’t love God and people around me at the same time. God does not need us to accomplish his purposes, but we are blessed to do so.
Like Francis Cahn says, “God's definition of what matters is pretty straightforward. He measures our lives by how we love.” So wherever you are today, I hope this is an encouragement to you. No matter where you may be, God is happy to know that you are seeking Him.
