Be Ready

Be Ready
by Bro

As the rain fell outside this morning I debated whether to slip out and sling a few arrows at the targets in the backyard. With all the excitement of hunting season now in full swing, I’ve managed to let a few days pass without spending time in the yard preparing for the moment of truth. I love to shoot my bow year-round, however, in the months leading up to hunting season, I practice religiously. I shoot in the mornings, at lunch time, and again before dark. However, one month in to hunting season I find myself having neglected one of the “chores” I cherish so much. I know I’m not the only one that is guilty of failing to continue with in-season practice. Why is it that when hunting season arrives we tend to slack on our practice sessions the most? A very successful hunter may sling 6-10 arrows a season at live animals. Hardly enough to maintain form and stay sharp. The reality is, we ought to ramp up our precise practice and preparation as the pressure of hunting season finally arrives. We should be more focused than ever on the task at hand and do everything within our power to ensure we are prepared for the moment of truth.

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Some years ago I choked on two easy shots at a really nice buck that just wouldn’t walk away. It would have been a record book buck with a longbow…but when it came down to it…I couldn’t hit the broadside of a barn. I was not ready. I was not focused. And when the moment arrived, I failed miserably.

The Bible boldly talks about our need to be ready at all times in life as well. 2 Timothy 4:2 says, “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction.” To “be ready in season and out of season” means to always be ready to serve God in any situation, whether or not it is convenient. We must be sensitive to the opportunities God gives us to share the word.

Much like the importance of practicing our skills in rain or shine, we must be ready to do what God has called us to do. At all times we must be prepared to speak truth and boldly proclaim the word of God when the opportunities arise.

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