Don’t we live in a world that is “instant” everything? That if it takes more than 30 seconds to do anything, we are irritated; long lines annoy and traffic creates road rage. Radio stations and TV shows have rants, impatience and blatant disregard for doing things the right way – the “right way” is viewed as the long way and wasting time. Do you remember the technology bust? The proper allotment of time was not given for the process to provide good fruit.
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”~ Romans 12:2 (NIV)
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." ~Philippians 4:8-9
There are days when I look back on my prayers, and I think, “What was I thinking?” In this past year there has been a steady theme of relaying to God “Lord I am ready for my dream, if I am not ready, continue to prepare Me.” Over many months as I ponder that prayer, I recognize that my life up to now, as well as what God is allowing moving forward, are all preparation for what He has for me.
I was reminded today of “delayed gratification” and that rewards come when I can be disciplined enough to wait and be content as God’s plan and lessons are lived out through my life. I am grateful for my friend Kelly for being God’s voice today, and bringing yet more confirmation to this week.
Proverbs 25:28 says ‘‘Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control.”
I am a very curious person, and I love researching words and phrases, in the process today, I learned of “the marshmallow experiment”, conducted by psychologist Walter Mischel in the ‘60s. I do not know if I would have been an “instant gratification” kid or a “delayed gratification” kid – however I do know that self-control and discipline are not easy efforts in my life. And, I do understand the power and benefit of living in a “delayed gratification” manner, a Christ-like and faithful manner.
“but let us not lose heart in doing good; for in due time, if we do not faint, we shall reap." ~Galatians 6:9 (Darby Translation)
“We're talking about an attitude. Delayed gratification is there, planning, be able to give up something now to get something later.” ~Joe Hill
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