Our culture tells us that it doesn’t matter what we are doing, as long as we are doing something. We find ourselves with an uneasy sense of guilt when we take a moment to rest, check our azimuth, or recover.
For we have been conditioned by our culture to operate in an unceasing manner. We almost feel taunted by 24-hour news channels, sports networks, retail stores, pharmacies, and the unblinking internet to keep pace and constantly demonstrate progress. In our haste we often set forth to right wrongs and prove our mettle without ‘wasting’ time on due diligence or expertise. For we have been errantly taught that our motivation will overcome any shortfalls.
Several years ago I endeavored to fabricate a pair of book shelves. At the time I had minimal carpentry skills (and sadly none have manifested in the time since). The problem appeared simple enough so without looking up instructions on YouTube, asking a friend, or even taking an extended look at existing furniture, I set forth. Armed with only my winning attitude and intuition, I ventured to Home Depot, purchased a hearty supply of wood, an aggressive looking saw, and a box of screws. I came home and immediately began, hoping to complete my project before dinner.
As you may have guessed, the scope of the project was far beyond my expectation and consumed not only my day, but my weekend, and even spilled into the week. I made no less than three more trips to Home Depot, spent well in excess of what new bookshelves would have cost, and tried to convince myself for the next year that the shelves looked rustic vice derelict and precarious.
I was motivated and determined, but that simply couldn't replace the understanding and expertise I lacked. I achieved only a haphazard version of what I had visualized because I failed to dedicate the requisite time to study the problem set and seek wisdom before pressing start.
“Ignorant zeal is worthless;
haste makes waste.”
Solomon urges us throughout Proverbs 19 to be careful not confuse enthusiasm with competency. Be it within ourselves or those around us. In the balance of the chapter he compels us to seek wise counsel, to accept correction, and to seek and trust the plans of God. We aren’t singularly ordained, equipped, or qualified to handle all the trials and tribulations before us but collectively, informed by God, we can be.
Let us attempt to forego our pride and self-inflicted urgency this week and instead pause before we charge headlong into our next argument / project / relationship / career. Our time on Earth is short and precious so let us ensure we approach it accordingly.