The Daily Devotional
Sunday, December 29, 2024
The Power of Saying "No"
For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven. (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
Introduction
Life is full of decisions that shape our journey. Some opportunities seem perfect but come with hidden costs or misaligned purposes. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us that God's timing and plans are perfect. It’s essential to discern when to move forward and when to step back, trusting that God's guidance leads to peace.
Reflection
When I moved to a retirement community and joined a struggling church, I was eager to serve. The bishop had assigned a deacon to lead the congregation. He welcomed help and invited anyone willing to preach to step forward. At first, I hesitated due to health concerns, but as I recovered, I offered to preach, leaning into my theological background. What began as a simple act of service turned into an invitation to explore ordained ministry within the church.
At first, I was flattered by the idea of ordination. However, as the process unfolded, I learned that continuing would require leaving my community and relocating for seminary. The more I prayed and reflected, the clearer it became that this was not the path God intended for me. I realized that sometimes saying “yes” to God means saying “no” to other well-meaning proposals. It wasn’t about rejecting ministry—it was about embracing the ministry God had already entrusted to me in my local church and community.
A man once saw a butterfly struggling to emerge from its cocoon. Wanting to help, he gently snipped the cocoon open. The butterfly emerged but was unable to fly because its wings hadn’t developed strength through the struggle. Sometimes, well-intentioned assistance disrupts the natural process. Similarly, saying “yes” to every opportunity can hinder us from fulfilling our true purpose. God often calls us to wait, trust, or even decline, so His greater plans can unfold.
Application
Discerning God’s will requires prayer, reflection, and courage. When faced with decisions, consider the following steps:
1. Pray for clarity: Ask God to reveal His will for your life.
2. Evaluate your motives: Are you motivated by God’s call or human expectations?
3. Seek counsel: Talk with trusted mentors or friends who can provide wisdom.
4. Listen to your heart: If a decision disrupts your peace or pulls you away from your purpose, it might not be from God.
By saying “no” to opportunities that don’t align with God’s plan, we create space to say “yes” to the life He has prepared for us.
Conclusion
Saying “no” is not a sign of weakness or disobedience; it can be an act of faith. It allows us to focus on what truly matters and where God has placed us. For me, that was staying in my retirement community and continuing to serve the church I had grown to love. Trust that when you say “no” for the right reasons, God honors your faithfulness and provides abundant opportunities to glorify Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your wisdom and guidance. Teach me to discern Your will and give me the courage to say “no” when opportunities do not align with Your plans. Help me to trust that Your timing and purpose are perfect. Lead me to serve faithfully where You have placed me, bringing glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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