STOP MAKING EXCUSES

There is a statement that hits our reality hard: 'If success is important to us, we will find a way to achieve it. But if success is not important, we will find a thousand and one reasons to justify our laziness.' Often, without realizing it, we love using various pretexts to cover up our personal weaknesses. We argue that we do not have time, lack capital, receive no support from our spouse, lack skills, or even blame a boss who is too harsh. Remember, manufacturing excuses means we are closing ourselves off to the vast possibilities out there. Excuses trap us in the illusion of waiting for the 'perfect situation' before taking a step. Yet, a one-hundred-percent perfect situation will never exist. Let us draw inspiration from the real-life story of Hollywood actor James Franco. At the height of his fame starring in major feature films, he did not sacrifice his education. Amidst an extraordinarily busy shooting schedule, he traveled back and forth from Los Angeles to the film set just to attend a single lecture at UCLA, graduating with a 3.5 GPA. Not stopping there, he continued his education at New York University and pursued a Doctorate at Yale University. If a person with such an extreme schedule can find a way, why do we, possessing much more leisure time, so often find only excuses? God created human beings in a neutral and naked state. What distinguishes the quality of our lives down the road is how we respond to the gift of time God has given us. Before you now lie only two absolute choices: Find a Way or Find an Excuse. The choice is in your hands!

Ready to embark on another faith journey with God's Word in the new cycle?

To ensure your quiet time and Bible reading bring maximum spiritual growth, apply these 4 simple steps:

1. Start with Prayer: Before reading, take 1 minute to pray. Ask the Holy Spirit to soften your heart and open your mind to receive God's message today.
2. Give Your Prime Time: The best time is usually in the early morning before work, or at night before bed. Avoid rushed reading.
3. Reflect & Personalize: Do not just skim. Ask yourself: "What correction, comfort, or command does God want me to obey today through this passage?"
4. Put It into Action: God's Word comes alive when practiced. Choose one small reflection point today and apply it in your words, thoughts, or deeds.

Unsure what to write in your reflection column? Follow this simple T.H.E.O framework:

• T (Text / Key Verse): Write down 1 sentence or verse from today's reading that touches or challenges you most.
• H (Heart Check / Condition): Examine and write down how your heart responds after reading the scripture.
• E (Execution / Action): Write a concrete action you will take today in obedience to the Word.
• O (Offering Prayer / Surrender): Write a short prayer dedicating your efforts and asking for the Holy Spirit's strength.