Do you find yourself making remarks such as, “I’m going to simplify my life,” or “I’m going to start praying more,” or “I’m going to get in shape”? These statements sound admirable, but in reality, they are deceptive. In essence, such remarks reveal that you are simply not taking action. You are not “doing it” now. You are putting off an action that has the potential to positively impact your life and the lives of others. The Lord has much to say about procrastination: “So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin” (James 4:17 ESV). Sin has consequences. “In all toil there is profit, but mere talk tends only to poverty” (Proverbs 14:23 ESV).

Whatever the cause for not following through on what the Lord has placed upon your heart, whether from fear, apathy, or mere laziness, move beyond it. Stop talking about what you are going to do: “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring” (Proverbs 27:1 ESV). Time is of the essence. Without infinite time on this planet, make each moment count with purpose-driven action.