"I can do all things....but I cannot do every thing!" ~Unknown
I read that statement on Facebook a couple of years ago and I could not help but smile and agree with its truth. For me, I can phrase it like this with the following parenthetical emphasis: I can do all things (required of me); but I cannot do everything (that is asked of me). Such a loaded statement!
This is something that is an ongoing reality with me. Now, know that I am a firm believer of Philippians 4:13, so I know that I can do all things that I have to do, because the strength doesn't come from me. A truth of my life in general is that so much more is often asked of me and I once felt that I HAD to do EVERY single thing that came to me. Not true! Not anymore!
I once found it difficult to say "NO" (well, I still do, but it's an area I'm working on). I will ALWAYS do all that I can and most of the time I will do more. But as I continue to grow and learn, I know that I must not be afraid to step back and say, "No, I CANNOT do that now", and NOT FEEL GUILTY! People will indeed take advantage of your abilities and kindness even when it is not their intention. People mean well. But sometimes you must maintain control of your life and yourself by drawing boundaries. It's not wrong to do so. If you don't look out for yourself, who will?
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13 NKJV
Carla Y. Nix
Founder
Live On Purpose Ministries
I read that statement on Facebook a couple of years ago and I could not help but smile and agree with its truth. For me, I can phrase it like this with the following parenthetical emphasis: I can do all things (required of me); but I cannot do everything (that is asked of me). Such a loaded statement!
This is something that is an ongoing reality with me. Now, know that I am a firm believer of Philippians 4:13, so I know that I can do all things that I have to do, because the strength doesn't come from me. A truth of my life in general is that so much more is often asked of me and I once felt that I HAD to do EVERY single thing that came to me. Not true! Not anymore!
I once found it difficult to say "NO" (well, I still do, but it's an area I'm working on). I will ALWAYS do all that I can and most of the time I will do more. But as I continue to grow and learn, I know that I must not be afraid to step back and say, "No, I CANNOT do that now", and NOT FEEL GUILTY! People will indeed take advantage of your abilities and kindness even when it is not their intention. People mean well. But sometimes you must maintain control of your life and yourself by drawing boundaries. It's not wrong to do so. If you don't look out for yourself, who will?
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13 NKJV
Carla Y. Nix
Founder
Live On Purpose Ministries