Saying No to Empower Your Yes

You know, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of opportunities and responsibilities that come your way. It’s like standing at a crossroads with a dozen different paths stretching out before you. You might feel the pressure to say yes to everything, fearing that a no could close doors or disappoint others. But have you ever considered that every yes you give is also a no to something else?

So then, be very careful how you live. Don’t live like foolish people but like wise people. Make the most of your opportunities because these are evil days.

– Ephesians 5:15-16 GW

Think about it. When you say yes to one thing, you’re essentially saying no to something else. You’re saying no to time with family, no to rest and sometimes, even no to God’s calling on your life.

Jesus understood this principle well. “Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed” (Luke 5:16 NIV). Jesus knew the value of saying no to the crowds and yes to time with God. He also understood that His yes to public ministry also required a no to constant availability.

Say no to empower your yes and safeguard the commitments you’ve already made, which allows you to fully engage in what truly matters.

Whether you see yourself as a leader or not, you are a leader in some capacity. God has given you influence into the lives of others. And to be a genuinely impactful influence for the Kingdom of God, it’s vitally important to understand the power of a well-placed no.

When you say no, it shouldn’t be dismissive or uncaring but because you’re committed to stewarding well what you’ve been given. Every no protects your yes. It safeguards the commitments you’ve already made and allows you to fully engage in what truly matters.

Your yes has power, but so does your no. Use them both wisely, and you’ll find that the path you’re on leads to a life of greater impact and fulfillment.

As you spend time asking God for wisdom in your choices, remember, it’s not about filling your life with activity but about filling it with purpose.

Today’s One Thing

Evaluate your commitments this week. Are there things you’ve said yes to that are pulling you away from what you’re really supposed to be doing? Don’t be afraid to step back and say no to something, even if it’s good, to protect your yes for something better.

Go Deeper

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