PROACTIVE OR REACTIVE LIVING?

Leon FontaineDevoted

According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it.  1 Corinthians 3:10 (NKJV) 

Many people spend their lives responding to other people’s crises while their own lives sit idle. When problems arise, they are fantastic at reacting to people’s needs. But don’t mistake a life of reaction for a life of action. 

 Now, should we help people out, visit the sick and comfort the hurting? Absolutely! However, God also calls us to do something proactive—not just reactive—with our lives. 

 Years ago, God dealt with me on this issue. My parents taught me to fight the good fight of faith, so I have no problem pulling down strongholds, speaking the Word and believing God for miracles. One day God said to me, “Leon, I know you can fight. But I want you to be a wise master builder too.” 

You see, when we’re at war, we don’t build anything—we just put up tents and battle to survive. But you can’t get anywhere in life by fighting all the time. You go through war to have peace, and in peaceful times, you build. 

 The question is, are you building something? Ask yourself, “What do I want to leave to my kids? How do I want to contribute to my church family? To my community?” I challenge you to step up and begin taking risks. Start volunteering. Go after the job you want or return to school and pursue the desires God has placed in your heart. 

 Yes, we put out fires when necessary. But at the same time, make sure you’re wisely building a life that makes your time on Earth count.