The Art of Making Excuses

We are skilful at the art of making excuses, aren’t we? It's a common human tendency to shy away from responsibilities or challenging tasks by coming up with seemingly valid reasons to avoid them. Whether it's delaying or postponing a project, avoiding a difficult conversation, or neglecting spiritual disciplines, excuses are our go-to shields.

Common excuses include “I don’t have time,” “I’m too tired,” “It’s too difficult,” or “I’ll do it tomorrow.” These excuses might provide temporary comfort, but they often keep us from reaching our full potential. The reality is we use these excuses to protect ourselves from discomfort, failure, or the unknown, not realising the long-term consequences of our avoidance.

The Folly of Excuses: Lessons from Prophet Jeremiah

It has been said, "Excuses are tools of the incompetent, and those who specialise in them seldom go far." Benjamin Franklin once wrote, "He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else." This wisdom aligns with the story of Prophet Jeremiah. When God called Jeremiah to be a prophet to the nations, he was quick to offer excuses.

In Jeremiah 1:4-6, we read:

"Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying: ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.’ Then said I: ‘Ah, Lord God! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth.’"

Prophet Jeremiah’s first excuse was his age. He felt too young and inexperienced to take on such a monumental task. But God did not accept this excuse. Instead, He reassured Jeremiah, saying:

"Do not say, ‘I am a youth,’ for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to deliver you,” says the Lord." (Jeremiah 1:7-8)

God’s response to Prophet Jeremiah’s excuse highlights a vital truth: When God calls us to do something, He equips us for the task, regardless of our supposed limitations. Jeremiah’s story reminds us that excuses are often rooted in fear and insecurity, but God’s call comes with the assurance of His presence and power.

Excuses Make Today Easier but Tomorrow Harder

Excuses may provide temporary relief, making today easier, but they often make tomorrow much harder. When we avoid difficult tasks today, they only pile up, creating more stress and anxiety for the future. This principle is echoed in Proverbs 6:9-11:

"How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man."

This scripture warns us about the dangers of postponing and delaying matters and making excuses. The "little sleep" and "little slumber" symbolise the small, seemingly harmless excuses we make to avoid responsibility. But over time, these small excuses can lead to significant consequences, much like poverty sneaking up like a thief.

Discipline Makes Today Harder but Tomorrow Easier

On the other hand, discipline makes today harder but tomorrow easier. Discipline requires effort, self-control, and sometimes discomfort. But the rewards of discipline are far-reaching and long-lasting. The Bible emphasises the importance of discipline in many passages. One such verse is Hebrews 12:11:

"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it."

Excuses vs. Discipline: A Choice We Must Make

Every day, we are faced with a choice: to make excuses or to exercise discipline. This choice will determine the course of our lives. Excuses might offer a quick escape from responsibility, but they trap us in a cycle of mediocrity and unfulfilled potential. In contrast, discipline requires effort and sacrifice, but it leads to success, spiritual growth, and the fulfilment of God’s purpose in our lives.

As believers, we must remember that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). We have the strength and ability through Christ to overcome any challenge. Let us take inspiration from Philippians 4:13, which says, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." This verse reminds us that no excuse is valid when we rely on God’s strength.

As you reflect on this choice, remember that God’s grace is sufficient for you. His power is made perfect in your weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). So, let go of excuses, embrace discipline, and step confidently into the life God has called you to live.

The Art of Making Excuses

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