I Will Go!

Christian Devotional by Pastor Cecil Thompson

Isaiah 6:8

“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for Us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!”

Over the years I have been given (officially or unofficially) many titles; son, husband, dad, papa, uncle, officer, teacher, lieutenant, captain, pastor—on and on it goes.

There is one title that few know about. As a matter of fact, only my wife Joyce has ever used it—“Ole Dog Shep.” My wife is the one who gave me that title one time when I was waiting for her to get off work.

Since that day we have laughed every time I do something that indicates that I am on time and reliable.

It is amazing how many times I have encountered people who promise the stars but are not reliable enough to be depended upon. As a matter of fact, it seems that there are more unreliable people than those you can count on.

Jesus told a parable that relates to this subject. Matthew 21:28-31; “What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’ ‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go. Which of the two did what his father wanted?’ The first,’ they answered.”

Jesus agreed that their answer was correct. In essence it indicates that actions are more important than what a person says. To say something that will make people think well of us is empty if we fail in our actions.

Over the years I have been called upon to officiate hundreds of weddings, funerals or other meaningful events. Early on I learned that people are on pins and needles until I arrive. As a result, I have made a point to arrive at least 30 minutes early.

All around us there are people who depend on us and our integrity. Part of integrity is to be reliable. That means being where you are supposed to be, and being there on time or early.

How can you establish a new pattern of dependability? First is to use a date book or calendar. Write down each and every commitment you make. Check each evening the schedule you are committed to the next day.

Second, on the day of the appointment, start a mental time clock of the hours you have before the appointment. Get as much detail out of the way as early as possible and always be aware of the time remaining. Make allowance for traffic delays that may arise.

When you say to someone, “I will go!” make sure you are committed to stand by your commitment.

Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing to others!

— Pastor Cecil

Insights on John – Chuck Swindoll

Hardcover Book:  $20.84 (last checked)

Insights on John is part of the 15-volume Swindoll’s Living Insights New Testament Commentary series. This newly revised and expanded edition draws on Gold Medallion Award–winner Chuck Swindoll’s 50 years of experience with studying and preaching God’s Word. His deep insight, signature easygoing style, and humor bring a warmth and practical accessibility not often found in commentaries.

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