Fellow former procrastinators, what does it mean to “bear fruits worthy of repentance”? Since sharing the list of ways I’m impelled to turn from procrastination to Christ (I Repent! April 17, 2016), I’ve been thinking of those words from Matthew 3:8 (NKJV). What do they mean? Looking it up, I find “bear fruits in keeping with repentance” (ESV). Here’s the context of the phrase:
Pharisees and Sadducees – both opposed Jesus – went to see Him baptized. He responded, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance.” Through His grace and mercy, God draws us to Christ. He is all we trust in. Since “repent” means to turn and go the other way, there should be evidence in my behavior that my heart now belongs to Jesus. That’s how love for Him is revealed.
Trusting in Christ’s mercy means action follows. My behavior is different from before. My path and ways take me in His direction.
Remember these? “Ponder the path of your feet” (Proverbs 4:26) and “Oh, that my ways were directed to keep your statutes.” (Psalm119:5).
As I review my list of “repents,” I see most are habits I have developed. Maybe that’s true for you, too.
Research shows that we cannot drop a habit. We have to replace it. That’s an excellent example of repentance! Wonder how to repent? Replace!
Change from going to bed at 11 pm to going at 10. Swap two servings of carbs for two servings of vegetables. Refuse to leave a flier on the counter, so place it in the tickler file.
From my list of repents, I’ll share some action I am now taking as I direct my ways toward Christ and my feet (behaviors) take me on a new road.
Instead of defaulting to procrastination, I am much quicker (far from perfect) to do what needs doing when it needs doing. Sometimes I never write a job on a do list because I do it as soon as I learn the need. (Amazing!)
Instead of wishing for time to focus on priorities, I now reserve four mornings weekly for priority tasks including procrastination work and exercise. I work on something priority before breakfast.
Instead of collecting more stuff, I avoid buying or going where there’s temptation. I fill a giveaway bag and deliver it every few weeks.
Instead of staying stuck in need, I have questions for someone whose counsel would help me. I’ve gotten her number and scheduled a call.
I still have a lot of repenting to do. That means there’s more fruit-evidence ahead – and more peace and joy! We replace procrastination with doing what needs doing when it needs doing. Scroll down this page and see the ant’s reminder. Procrastination prevents godly fruit; diligence promotes it.
Praise God for the fruit-evidence in your life that demonstrates your heart change!
What specific procrastination behavior have you repented of and what did you replace it with?
You have directed my scripture reading this morning. Thank you precious friend.
Ephesians 4:22-24
that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.
Romans 6:6
knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin;
Galatians 5:16-18
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law.
Phyllis, this is great! Don’t you love it when God brings to mind additional scriptures that speak together? The way scripture is interwoven and interrelated is fascinating and helpful. What wonderful references you’ve pointed out! May we walk in the light, free from control of the flesh, renewed in our spirits!