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In many ways we are rather spontaneous in the way we approach life. With most issues we tend to "shoot from the hip." Many of our decisions are made on the spur of the moment. Much of our conversation is the product of sentences quickly made. Careless speech flows when little thought is given to what is being said. The mismanagement of words can often lead to multiple misunderstandings. Anger can be the result of spontaneous comments. Hasty reactions come from the lack of contemplation. Quick decisions can be devastating with long-term penalties. Since most circumstances do not allow ample time for meditation, how do we prepare ourselves for the spontaneity of life? How do we equip ourselves for the daily emergencies which require words of wisdom correctly spoken? When life hands us a spur-of-the-moment situation how do we deal with it constructively? Of course there are no canned solutions to every predicament. There are no pat answers to every question. There is no indexed "How To" book on life's problems. There is, however, a disposition of grace with which to face the complexities of life. It is cultivated through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. In Him we have a premeditated approach to every circumstance. We call it "prayer" and "worship" and those moments when we reflect on the things of God. Through fellowship with the Father we equip ourselves to think good thoughts, to pursue truth, to express love, and to approach each day with a constructive attitude. This does not mean we will always do and say the right thing. It does mean we will find a valuable resource in humility, forgiveness, and grace. Our obnoxious determination to prove something will not hinder our ability to learn something. From this perspective life flows with a smoother temperament. Preparation for the spontaneity of life is a daily assignment. Just as nourishment for our bodies keeps us physically fit, so the nourishment for our souls keeps us spiritually alert. We feed on the bread of heaven and drink from the fountain of love. We allow ourselves to be washed in the blood. We bring our burdens to the Lord and leave them there. We hide His words in our hearts that we may not sin against God. In the gradual growing of the grace and knowledge of our Lord there emerges a sweeter spirit within. As we face the spur-of-the-moment aspects of life, "what a friend we have in Jesus."
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