Welcome to you new folks who are joining us former procrastinators! Glad to have you! Last week we read about Sir Constant rescuing his friend Sir Ardent from the perilous City of Good Intent. (The City of Good Intent, February 12, 2018) Did you see yourself as clearly as I saw myself? Ugh.
We intend to do something – say, write Aunt Mary – so we settle into comfort because we mean to write her. We don’t do it, but we mean to. We’re comfortable because we’ve settled on what we ought to do. Where’s the action?
There is no action when we dwell in the City of Good Intent. We’re just happy we know what we will do someday. And how great things will be …someday.
No! Self- deceiver, wake up!
Whether we escape the City of Good Intent or are being careful to avoid it, there’s one thing to keep ever before us – the face of our Savior and King. He is the one who calls us and it is for Him that we make every effort.
To escape that city, heed the clanging bell rung by the King’s servant (maybe a sermon, email, book, or the example of a friend). Do not cover your ears, but gratefully wake up.
Examine your intentions and see if they are from the Lord and if there is actual fruit. Do not turn to look at something else more soothing.
Follow the example of others pulling on their armor and fleeing the City of Good Intent. Take no offense.
Return to the road you’re called to travel. If God sends a person to walk with you, take that hand and move out. Do not be distracted by those who are baffled by your return to action or even resent it.
To avoid the City of Good Intent, we must be alert. That city and the temptation to cling to what is comfortable has a way of showing up on our road no matter where we are in our journey.
Travel with alert companions who want your success and are willing to take a hard road with you – an accountability partner, prayer partner, mentor.
Consult your map often. If you don’t have a plan, make one. Be sure any detours are of the Lord.
Stay on the road using routine that helps you do the most important things.
Heed warning signs. Remember others often see what we cannot.
Rest appropriately. This is critical to being constant and ardent – steady on our path and enthusiastic in heart.
I have deceived myself about overeating and not exercising (lingering ankle stuff). I comforted myself with falsehoods about my intake. Meanwhile, I’ve gained 10 pounds (real, not imaginary). The doctor’s scale was a clanging bell. Now I have an eating and exercise plan to follow and an accountability partner. My armor’s tight, but I’m putting it on!
What will you do today to escape or avoid the City of Good Intent?
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