Initiative

<<take charge, creativity>>

Jacob said, “Don’t just stand there. You know what to do, act” (Gen 42:1,2). When Nehemiah heard that Jerusalem was in ruins, he passionately ‘put his hand up’ taking responsibility to address the situation (Neh 1:4-2:8). When God said, “Whom will I send”, the answer was “Here I am, send me” (Isa 6:8). This faith response from Isaiah was as that of Jesus, who saw the need and accepted the challenge to redeem humanity. “Titus is coming to you with much enthusiasm and on his own initiative” (2 Cor 8:17). He didn’t wait for human orders or instructions; he recognised a need, was passionate and believed with Christ’s help he could meet it. Similarly, when God speaks to us we must have the readiness and ingenuity to embark on bold new ventures for Him. The advice given is, “Don’t just hear what the Scriptures say, do it; if you don’t do it, this is sin” (Jas 1:22, 4:17). The parable of the talents indicates we all will stand before God and give account of what we have done with what was expected of us (Mt 25:14-30).

Don’t be put off by a lack of personal ability, a handicap, fear of others, criticism, or any other obstacle which is against us. Use them as a catalyst to find a solution (Mt 20:30-34; Mk 10:46-52). Satan would like us to give up

Don’t wait for things to happen, be proactive

even before we start, in comparison to Christ who will walk with us as we tackle the challenge. God gave us brains to think through the various issues and formulate a suitable course of action and so make the most of the opportunities offered (Eph 5:15,16; Col 4:5). If appropriate, muster your courage to give it to go – step outside your comfort zone, take the risk, put your fears to shame. Believe in yourself and go for it, live your dream. Am I passionate about an area and prepared to take the risk to bring about change? While failing is a possibility so is success. Maybe others are looking for a leader to set the example and blaze a trail. Don’t be like a child having to be directed and instructed what to do, rather see the need and seek to fulfill it. A crop can’t be harvested unless the seed has been sown; as there is the time factor required for the seed to germinate and the plant to develop so the sowing must be planned in advance of the projected crop. Clarify your goals then use your imagination to find creative ways to achieve them. “Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them” (Jn 13:17). Put into practice the wisdom and knowledge you have. Be motivated to bring your intentions into reality. “Those that work the land will have food, the reward for initiative and diligence” (Prov 12:11).

Four men bringing a paralyzed man to Jesus could not get into the house where Jesus was healing people. Undeterred, they went onto the roof and made an opening and lowered the man down. Jesus recognised their persistence and faith and healed the man (Mk 2:2-12). Similarly, Zacchaeus found a novel approach to fulfill his desire to see Jesus, and his life was transformed because of that encounter (Lk 19:1-9).