Don’t Cut Corners

People generally cut corners because they think it is going to make their life easier. In the short term, cutting corners can bring instant gratification. In the long run, it creates twice the work. The Bible is very clear about finishing what you start and doing your work with thoughtfulness and quality (Col. 3:17; Prov. 21:25; Eccles. 10:18; Luke 14:28; the most famous New Testament story about not giving one hundred percent is Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11). For you and me it may not be so dramatic. We may be cutting corners in smaller areas of our life. It could be anything from yard work to painting to being a packrat because you’re too lazy to throw things away you really no longer use.

Here is a story I read this weekend that will help you see the light on trying to get around following the rules:

Worth the trip?
At the age 16, I traveled across Europe with friends. One day, a friend convinced us that the city tram conductor rarely came on broad, and we could ride without buying a ticket. Reluctantly, I followed along. Sure enough, at one stop, the conductor came on board and checked us for tickets. All six of us were hauled down to the Polizei (police station) to pay a fine. The cost: Ten times the amount of the ticket price and one very humiliated teenager.
– Donna Wichelma, Fort Collins, Colo.

I can only wonder what price we will pay when we stand before the Lord for not having given our very best to Him in everything we do. Not long ago I began to realize the brevity of life. It changed me forever. I keep pressing ahead in areas of discipline and commitment. I came to realize one thing when I do something halfway. I have to do it over again. When I do something right the first time, I generally can move on to the next project. The Lord did not intend your life to be a series of do-overs (Luke 9:62).

Word for Today
Parley - A discussion or conference, especially one between enemies over terms of truce or other matters.

Quote for Today
Either you will humble yourself and ask for help before the project starts, or you will humiliate yourself and ruin the project and need help to fix your mess anyway.
– raj