Becoming a Disciple - Week 4, Day 3

Don't Let Good Crowd Out the Best (Todd's Story)

In the fast-paced world we all live in today, there are literally thousands of decisions we have to make daily. For example, you have to decide when the alarm clock goes off in the morning whether you are going to:

A. turn it off and get up
B. turn it off and go to sleep
C. turn it off by throwing it against the door and going back to sleep.

If and when you get up, you have to choose whether to take a shower, whether to eat breakfast, whether to go to the bathroom or to brush your teeth and on and on.

Ninety percent of the decisions you make come naturally. I mean, how many of you guys go into an in-depth, thought-provoking discussion on whether or not you’re going to go to the bathroom?

Most decisions are automatic, but some aren’t. Decisions on whether or not to play sports or be in the band, whether you should get a job or help out at church.

Sometimes we can get so bogged down doing “good” things that we don’t leave any time to do the very “best” things in life.

A few years ago, I was a prime example of a kid who was busy doing “good” things, but I didn’t have time for the best. Believe it or not, I used to be a pretty good trumpet player. I was in jazz band, pep band, and marching band. Anyway, I was so busy doing so many “GOOD” things that I didn’t have time for God’s “BEST.” I didn’t have time for church; I didn’t have time to spend with God each day; I didn’t have enough time, period. What happened, as a result, is that I got burnt out, and my priorities got seriously messed up!

During your time in school, many people are going to be pulling at you to do a lot of different activities. Before you say yes to everything, make sure it’s what God wants you to do. Talk to Him about the time that will be involved to accomplish another commitment. Not only should you talk to God, but also speak to your parents. Believe it or not, nine times out of 10, they know what they are talking about. Ask for their advice.

Lastly, make out a schedule. Find out if you have any more time to give. For many of you right now, you’re already stressed because you are doing too much. Learn how to say NO. There is nothing wrong with saying NO to some things. God and grades always come first this school year. Don’t let either one suffer by doing a lot of good things.

TEST:
1. Have you been setting aside quality time to be alone with God for prayer and Bible study?
2. Have you allowed outside activities to stop you from going to church?
3. Have you kept your focus on Jesus (or have you had your focus on something else)? 
4. Have you found yourself doing things and saying things that you promised God that you would never say or do again?
5. Have you been giving in to compromise?

Don’t let the good things in life crowd out God’s best for you. Keep your focus on Christ and wait for Him to help you make the right choice for your life.

Time Out

Look up Luke 10:38-42 and answer the following questions. 

1. Who are the two women in the story, and what is their relationship? 

2. What is Martha busy doing?

3. What is Mary busy doing?

4. Why is what Mary is doing more better than what Martha is doing?

5. Are you more like Mary or Martha?

In Psalm 32:8, the Bible says, "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." 

1. Why do we need the Lord's help in living our lives?

2. What does He promise He will do for us?