‘Do not disturb’
‘Preach the Word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favourable or not.’ 2 Timothy 4:2 NLT
In training Timothy for ministry, Paul says, ‘Preach the Word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favourable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching’ (2 Timothy 4:2 NLT). Most hotels have a sign you can put on your bedroom door that says, ‘Do Not Disturb’. That sign on your door means you want to relax, sleep, or not be bothered. Hanging that sign on your hotel room door is acceptable, but putting it on your life isn’t. Have you ever noticed that God doesn’t always do things on our timetable or in ways that are convenient for us? Paul told Timothy that when it came to serving the Lord, he was called to do it ‘whether the time is favourable or not’. We need to remember that whatever God asks us to do, it’s always worth any inconvenience or difficulty we face in the process. And He will always make a way for us to accomplish His will when we are obedient to Him.
The Bible says, ‘For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God's laws, and it never will. That's why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God.’ (Romans 8:7-8 NLT). Notice, this ‘sinful nature’ doesn’t please God. This doesn’t mean that God doesn’t love us. What it does mean is that He is not satisfied, nor will He accept behaviour ‘still under the control of their sinful nature’. So take down your ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign and commit to walking in obedience, for it’s the pathway of blessing.
SoulFood: Matt 4:18-20 Matt 16:13-23 Matt 26:69-75 John 21:15-19
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