THE 24-HOUR RULE
Proverbs 20:22 (NLT)
Don’t say, ‘I will get even for this wrong.’ Wait for the Lord to handle the matter.
Pastor Alan has a practice that I have found to be wise and helpful. He calls it the 24-Hour Rule. If (or should I say when) he receives a challenging email or voicemail, he waits 24 hours before responding. That’s been quite helpful to me when something rubs me the wrong way, makes me mad, or hurts my feelings, because my first reaction isn’t always the best.
The Lord has been kindly helping me in this area over the past year. He has been reminding me that He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). Jesus always has a way. He knows the way any and every situation needs to be handled. Sometimes, when I do things my way, I get in the way. I can easily make things worse instead of better.
King Solomon had God’s wisdom in this proverb or wise saying. He knew (probably from personal experience, as well as revelation from the Holy Spirit) the value of a pause, of waiting. Rather than immediately taking matters into our own hands or spouting off whatever pops into our heads, we can take a minute (at least) to talk to God about it – give it to Him and ask for His wisdom. When we ask for His way, we’re less likely to get in the way and make matters worse. I’m so thankful we serve a God who always knows what to do. His way is always the best way!
PRAYER
Father, I’m so sorry for all the times I’ve tried to handle things my own way. I recognize that You are always the way! Please teach me to slow down and wait for You to handle the matter and show me the way forward.