Work With Intention

An old adage says, “idle hands are the devil’s workshop.” Perhaps you’ve heard it from the lips of your grandmother or other elder and dismissed it as an extra biblical proverb. While not explicitly stated, we do see the idea spread about throughout Scripture. One such instance is evident in 2 Samuel 11. 

In the opening verses of this chapter we find King David at home laying about, being idle, if you will. He was in his comfy palace instead of leading his army in battle (11:1). He laid in bed all day instead of administering his nation (11:2). He wasn’t where he was supposed to be or doing the work he was supposed to be doing - the work for which God had called and anointed him.

​King David made some small choices here that, on their own, don't appear to be dire. However, they end up leading him to some monumental decisions and severe consequences that impact not only himself, but his entire kingdom. 

Like David, as mothers, we have important work to do. We may not be ruling a nation, but our duties do affect the Kingdom. We are called by God to disciple our children, serve our husbands, and maintain our households. Perhaps you also have work outside the home where you have God-given responsibilities to attend to. We must be continually on guard that we are not making choices that casually shift us into idleness causing us to neglect our responsibilities. Our choices, however small, matter. They either set us up for success, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide and direct us, or they set us up for failure, allowing the devil an opportunity to whisper lies and deceive us. Mamas, let’s choose wisely. Intentionally choose to be diligent in the work God has called you to do.

For me, some of these small choices include getting up early, ahead of my children, to prepare my heart, mind, and home for the day. Another is limiting my time on social media and carefully curating the influences I allow to speak to me there. Most recently, it’s been “giving up” the romcoms I loved to escape into and instead choosing books that edify my spirit and further the values I hold. None of these choices would seem to singularly define or direct my life, but together they have set me on a path to deeper joy and purpose in the work God has given me, chiefly motherhood.  

Of course, these convictions and choices are not something we can set out to do in our own power. God, by his infinite grace, is the one who convicts, draws us to repentance, and provides the power to change. We must simply draw near to Him and ask. Like the Psalmist in Psalm 139: 23-24, we can cry to the Lord, “Search me, God and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” He knows us better than we know ourselves and He is faithful to provide all we need to walk according to His way - including conviction and the grace and opportunity for repentance.

Today, I encourage you to begin seeking the Lord in prayer. Ask Him if there is any area in your life, however minor, where you have been idle. Then listen and watch as He enlightens your eyes. Respond to the grace He provides, repent and turn back to the work He has called you to. Then allow Him to empower you to make small choices that create a fruitful and joy-filled life. ​

“Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” Ephesians 5:15-17 (NIV)

About the Author

Hi, my name is Jess Ridgeway. I live in almost Heaven West Virginia with my husband and our two toddlers, Simon and Eliza. Besides chasing children, I enjoy reading, sitting outside in the sunshine, and drinking hot coffee. I am so amazed and grateful for the way God has and continues to change my life through his Word. The Bible is alive and active and I just want to shout from the rooftops, "read your Bible!" My desire is to see women excited to dig into the Word, getting to know their Lord and Savior in new and deeper ways.