Godward Toil

Tool to support my "No prebiblical email" resolution

Some time ago, I came across this Outlook macro posted in 2004 by Christian publisher Michael Hyatt.  It has been a wonderful "tool for toil" for some time, and especially as I strive to live out my resolution to fill myself with God's word and power before attempting other work.

Resolved: No email before Bible

Today I got to work early.  I took out my Bible and journal and put them on my desk with the plan of filling my mind and heart with God before doing anything else.  But then...I remembered an email I had meant to send.  Rather than simply writing it down on an index card and continuing with my plan, I thought, "Let me just send this."  When I opened my Inbox to compose the email I wanted to send, I saw several other emails that needed response.  Off I was....two hours of toil in email and other computer work, then to my first meeting of a jam-packed day.  This is why Peter warned, "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." (1 Peter 5:8)   I didn't return to the Word until I was convicted of my distraction late at night. 

I love the resolutions of Jonathan Edwards.  What a life!  So today here is mine:

Resolved:  To do nothing on my computer for work, ministry, or family before I have read the Bible and prayed.