“And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.”
Matthew 4:22
The word “immediately” in the above passage shows us the virtue of promptness or immediacy, a rare quality needed for superlative productivity and achievement. Do you want to achieve results in life? Then be prepared to always take prompt action as a lifestyle.
Promptness is incompatible with procrastination. A man given to procrastination cannot add value to existence! Tardiness or slowness does not pay! Wasting time to carry out advice, instruction or assignment does not pay! Simon Peter and Andrew did not waste time in dropping their nets to follow Jesus. That’s perfect promptness!
Their immediate action tells us about their character traits of respect and value. They gave respect to Jesus’ instruction. We communicate value and respect to people when we promptly carry out instructions or assignments. Do you have reputation for promptness or lateness? Are you known for being either prompt or chronically sluggish? If you are not into ‘promptness’, then you are into ‘slowness’! Even satan will not hire you as he is given promptness in carrying out his evil work! The Bible says, “And these are they by the wayside, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.”
Mark 4:15
Your chronic dilatoriness could cause you some blessings. Have you considered missing important appointments due to your chronic dilatory lifestyle? Your continued lateness stems from a combination of pride and a lack of time management skills. There is profit in taking prompt action! For instance, if not for the chief Captain’s prompt or immediate action Apostle Paul would have been killed.
“And as they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the chief captain of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar. Who immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down unto them: and when they saw the chief captain and the soldiers, they left beating of Paul.” Acts 21:31-32
Let’s consider a few examples of promptness as displayed in the scriptures:
- Jesus
“And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?”
Matthew 14:31 - Angels
“And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost.”
Acts 12:23 - Paul and co
“And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.”
Acts 16:10
I decree and declare that you will cultivate the attitude and lifestyle of promptness forthwith in Jesus’ mighty name!
Yours sincerely,
Joe jesimiel Ogbe
Ydiradio.com