I always end up frustrated whenever I have to do something important, but I don’t do it immediately. I procrastinate due to different reasons. It could be out of fear, laziness, or indifference (to name a few). This lack of urgency on my part is stealing my peace!
My mind keeps thinking, “I should have done this earlier.”
A Little Too Late
Cramming was a common experience during my university days. I always thought that there was more time… to study for an exam, to finish a project, to read through the text book.
I remember vividly when I crammed a philosophy paper. I typed as fast as I could, drove to school at high speeds, and ran the school halls to reach the office of my professor.
When I saw him to hand in my paper, he looked straight at me. With a firm face, he said, “I cant accept that. You’re late.”
I checked my watch and I was 5 minutes past the deadline. It was no use arguing with him.
No Better Time than Now (the 4 R’s)
I can make up for the papers I didn’t submit on time. But there are some actions in life that I believe can’t be delayed any longer. It’s a big temptation to keep on delaying these. On the other hand, it can bring great joy and peace if I stop procrastinating.
1. Time to REFLECT
In this fast paced world, people make little time to step back and reflect. I must discipline not to put this off. It will only make me a better person.
I apply this when I reflect about my goals related to aspects 5 F’s I mentioned in a previous post: Faith, Family, Friends, Finances, Fitness.
As an example of a reflective question on Faith: “Are my thoughts and actions more Christ-like today than it was 1 month ago?”
2. Time to RECONCILE
People are different in Personalities, Priorities, and Passions. It’s unavoidable that there will be times when I come into conflict or disagreements.
It’s always a temptation to think, “Just let time heal the broken relationship.”
If there is a person that God puts into my mind to talk to, I must take initiative to reconcile. There’s usually awkwardness that precedes it. But there is a feeling of freedom after I do it.
3. Time to RESPOND
I believe many people are blessed more than they recognize it. The more people realize how blessed they are, the more they will respond by being blessings to others.
When my eyes were opened to the goodness of God, I responded with passion by serving Him and others. I volunteered to organize various activities for teenagers and reached out to them. I couldn’t even stop myself! There are so many ways a person can help the community.
It’s the natural and proper response: “I’m so blessed that I want to be a blessing to others.”
4. Time to REPENT
I’m a fallen person living in a fallen world. I’ve got to get up and face life anew! I need to get right with my God… NOW!
I must own up for my mistakes… compromising, make excuses, or blaming others for my failures. True repentance should never be delayed.
An impactful verse for me regarding all these is Psalm 139:23-24
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
These 4 R’s includes the temptation to be put aside and delayed. But if I want to be in the center of God’s will, these are the very actions that will lead me to it.
Posted on: Sept 25, 2014
Photo: Copyright
Discussion Question:
What among the 4 R’s have you been procrastinating lately? When do you plan to do it?