Press Through for Peace and Joy

Posted May 1, 03:57 AM by Kay Camenisch

We’ve just finished a remodel job. We framed and hung doors to a closet and a water heater closet in a bathroom. It’s been begging to be done for a long time, but it’s back in a corner where nobody (outsiders, that is) sees it, so it wasn’t high priority. It was also a challenge to know how to tackle the job, so motivation was low. Once decisions were made as to how to proceed, and we got started, the project moved right along.

The bathroom was a mess for several days, allowing drying time for sheetrock mud and several layers of paint, but it wasn’t nearly as bad as we anticipated. Now the room is finished, coordinated and harmonious.

The remodel job led to other things, like cleaning scum off the shower curtain and washing the rugs. It’s also prompted more diligence in keeping the countertop spotless. Every time we walk in the room, the fresh clean feeling greets and warms us. The results are so satisfying it makes me wonder why it took so long to tackle the project.

It reminds me of another venue of procrastination that is followed by great joy upon completion. In my spiritual life it is so easy to put off things like clearing my conscience, asking forgiveness, surrendering to God, or whatever the issue is at the moment. But when I press through and do what is pleasing to God, I experience such joy and harmony within. I’m grateful I serve a God who gives us grace to do those things that restore our heart to a place of peace and joy.

Oh, Lord, help me keep this in mind the next time I drag my feet on something!