The first time, former procrastinators, that I heard “All of life is spiritual” I questioned it. The speaker went on to say changing diapers is spiritual. And it’s true. “In Him we live and move and have our being.” (Acts 17:28) There is nothing that doesn’t come under God.
Yet in our humanness we tend to think some things are more “spiritual” than others. When we do that, we discount the value of the practical as it relates to God. God is present in our mundane everyday lives and He directs us as we live them.
In fact, our relationship with the Lord is walked out in the practical. Whether I yell at the child who tore his jacket or listen sympathetically to his story, whether I storm out of the office or respectfully exit – these speak of my inner man.
It’s not the task but the leading of the Spirit that counts. Anything that keeps us in step with the Spirit is of God. It can be obviously spiritual like preparing for Bible study, or it can be raking the yard.
Obedience to Him in any area is spiritual. It pleases Him. It furthers His work in and through us. Likewise, disobedience takes us farther from Him. It’s not just that I did not rake the yard; it’s that I did not obey His prompting. He said… I chose otherwise.
Jesus often spoke of practical tasks – feeding hungry people, acquiring a room for the Passover, searching for a lost coin, entrusting Mary to John’s care, physical healings that enabled earning a living, and more.
Recognizing the spiritual value of the practical is important for our theme this year. Whatever our topic, we can be confident we’re living out His will if we’re obedient to the prompting of His Holy Spirit. That will help us do what needs doing when it needs doing
If you fret about not measuring up because you can’t attend two church services a week or haven’t read through the Bible, fret no more. “Spiritual” or “practical,” what the Spirit directs you to do is His will for you.
Whatever we do – work, play, or rest – let us do it heartily as unto the Lord!
When do you most struggle to believe your daily tasks have spiritual value?
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