Moreover, as they go about from house to house, they learn to be idlers, and not only idlers, but gossips and busybodies, saying what they should not say and talking of things they should not mention.
1 Timothy 5:13
Many years ago, I read an article that convicted me of the sin of ‘needing to know‘. But you know what? Just because God taught me some things about that then, does not mean that I now have all my ducks in a row and that I don’t struggle in this area anymore. I do.
And something happened this week to show me how things get mucked up when I try to operate in my own strength and do things on my own.
I have a confession to make. I have been lurking around places, (read: forums, blogs, etc) simply to know what is going on. I have not been contributing to them, I just want to know. I have again been convicted that this isn’t any better than the woman that Paul describes as wandering about the neighbourhood, dropping in to say hello and finding out the latest goss. [ouch]
Its time for a cleanup- of my heart, mind and websites I am on. If I am not involved in some way with a person or site or blog (by praying for them or commenting them) or if I’m not serving them by responding to queries then maybe I ought not be there. I need to ask myself: Why am I here visiting this site? Is it to serve, to be edified, informed, to pray? If not, then I need not be there.
Lord, I am sorry. Teach me to keep myself busy with my tasks here at home instead of wandering ‘around’ getting into everyone else’s business. Forgive me for straying from your ways and set my feet upon the right path again Lord. Help me to guard my heart and mind, that in all things I give glory to You.
Amen, Susan, amen. I have also been convicted of the very same thing. It also burns up precious little time that we have, as every little 5 minutes counts for something of more value. What a soft and open heart you have to the Lord… The path gets narrower, but as that happens, the load gets lighter. Thanks be to Jesus. Keep us from the broad path, Lord, and help us stay on target with Your plans and purposes for our lives.
Hi Susan, that’s such a great thing to think about. Just sharing some of what has been on my mind … no reflection on you. I’ve really mulled over these challenges (what is time spent in idleness and gossip) in my new situation. I’ve not had time to hang out on several boards because of my time restrictions (I feel sad as I can’t remember the last time I was on, say, the Aussie classifieds or the board with my canberra hsing friends) but do I take myself off these boards because I might be lurking when I go there to catch up and by the time I catch up I’ve run out of time contribute. Probably feeling some homesickness but that’s to be expected, I guess.
I can relate to the temptation ‘to know’ but personally it leaves me feeling empty so I try to resist …. it’s just not worth in in the long run. God knew that when He gave all that great wisdom on gossip and how to live as women working full-time in the home.
So does this make up for all the times I didn’t comment here teheheh??!
Thank you for you humility … these issues of the heart are so worth the discomfort of being humble and transparent. Thanks to the God of all patience! Shelso xxx
Ooh, ouch! I too think about my internet time and how much time I “visit” with no purpose. Worse for me, I’ll read something that will get me cranked up, and will spend time thinking of a response or comment… never to send/post it.
sometimes though it is a case of many others responding in positive ways and feeling that my little humble mumblings will not add purpose to the conversation. In many instances I choose to write nothing rather than struggling to get my words out and rendering the author totally confused! The Lord has convicted me of spending too much time on the internet though and I have withdrawn from many forums. Thankyou for sharing so passionatley from your heart…….you always encourage me!
Hi Susan, Just poping by to catch up a bit. We’re leaving for TN this week end. Coming back in two weeks for the 2nd truck load.
I always enjoy browsing your blog.
What a wonderful and refreshing web blog!
You have been a blessing to me!
I am not home schooling as yet, (my son has just started school) however I believe it is to come in the future.