I struggle to say no. Part of it’s a temptation to do “all the things”; the other is a crippling need for people’s approval. Whatever the root cause, it’s devastating. I wear out, often quickly. Work becomes drudgery instead of a delight. Friendships sour.
It’s a blessing, then, to know my vulnerabilities. When opportunities come my way, I know to pause and seek wisdom from God. I need his direction, his approval, not man’s. I need for God to be in charge because I’m not, no matter how often I act that way. God is God, and I am not.
It’s still hard to take that moment to reflect. Everything in me clamors and rushes to say yes. A voice whispers, “Will they still like you if you say no? If you hold to your principles?” or, in the case of a work project, “Are you sure you can say no? You have bills to pay, quarterly taxes. What if they get upset that you declined the offer?”
In those moments, I have to become still. I need to sit at Jesus’ feet for a while instead of scurrying around the kitchen. I must wait for the still, small voice, or the shout. God always surprises me with who he is and how he communicates. Sometimes he’s quiet because he knows that what I need. Other times…other times, he’s loud. It’s the only way to get my attention. He is a good, good father in that way. He gives me the exact word I need in precisely the way I need it.
When I do that, when I quiet my soul and listen, I find clarity. I know what to say yes and no to. It doesn’t mean I don’t struggle to say no, but I have a small sense of peace about it. I know I’m doing the right thing by not taking an opportunity because I’m aiming toward God and his heart rather than my own.
Image: Chris Com (Creative Commons)