The Gift of Saying No

There is a difficulty that many bright, active young people (just like each of you) have. It's hard to say no. There are so many things interesting things to do, so many things we want to do, and so many things we think we should do. At times we find ourselves saying yes far more than we should. We can end up overwhelmed and then not fully living up to the responsibilities that we have accepted.

Now common sense tells us that it's better to do a few things very well rather than a number of things poorly. And as a Christian, what do we think? The book of Ecclesiastes states in 4:6, "Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind." We also remember the story of Martha (Luke 10) who was so distracted with all the things she thought needed to be done, that she was missing out on spending time with Jesus.

It is much better for us to say no to certain things than to say yes when we will only do those things poorly, no matter our good intentions. It's important for us really to communicate with God about decisions we make. God will let us know our priorities and how we should spend our time. It is much more Christ-like to say no at times, than always to be a yes-person.

Next time you are asked to do something that will just not work in your life or priorities or for which you do not have time, just say no. Don't feel guilty. No one can do everything asked of them. God insituted the Sabbath - a time of rest when work was not done. It's a good and healthy and spiritual thing not always to be busy, but to select what will be done and at what time and to do it well.

I know it's not always easy to make a decision about saying no. Talk with your friends, your minister, mentors or other trusted people. And talk with God. When we are overwhelmed, they can help us see our own busy lives with more clarity.