“Remember, the duller the ax, the harder the work; use your head,; the more brains, the less muscle.” Ecclesiastes 10:10 MSG)
This scripture reminds me of Stephen Covey’s 7th habit; sharpen the saw. I don’t know that I had realized before, just how biblical this habit is. To sharpen the saw is allow time for rest and recalibration. It means we build in opportunity to both system reset and update internal software. Without sharpening the saw, we become dull and tired. Our work is rendered far less effective because we are less enthusiastic.
I’ve personally learned this lesson in these past five months. I realized how much more I love life when I’m well-rested and able to pursue personal growth. The past week, though, has been insane. Between prepping and listing our house, turning up the heat on the job search and getting our son moved across the country and settled in college, I’m running on pure fumes at this point. I am earnestly looking forward to my first opportunity to sharpen the saw; to stop running and get a good opportunity to reflect and readjust to my new reality.
We are not great about sharpening the saw. Not in our culture and certainly not in ministry. Yet, sharpening the saw is essential for longevity and productivity. Without sharpening, we will burn out or blow up. We’ll wear brittle and break long before we’ve accomplished our full purpose and we’ll likely hurt people badly in the process. Life with a dull saw is a lot more work.
Today I’m thankful to have finally learned this lesson. I’m looking forward to the next time I can step away from this crazy and return to a sustainable rhythm that allows me time and space to love others well over the long haul.
Lord, thank You for the things in Your Word that teach us wisdom. Help us in establishing healthy rhythms that create and support a productive life. Give us the discipline to call a time out when we need it most. Meet us in those moments and help us rest and refocus, so we can continue to serve You well. Amen.