It is not just about good choices, but appropriate choices that would not hinder our spiritual life, ministry, and God-given purpose. The author of Hebrews exhorts disciples to lay aside every weight that could hinder progress. (Hebrews 11:2)
Wrong priorities: Some disciples get their priorities wrong, and that halts are delaying their pilgrimage. The priority is the Kingdom of God, and all others are of lesser priority for a disciple. (Matthew 6:33)
Worries: Some get weighed down by unnecessary worries. God-given burden for mission is light, while worries are heavy. Worldly worries and worries about things beyond our comprehension in ministry and mission could result in feeble faith.
Unprepared: The foolish virgins were in the right place, at the right time, for the right purpose, but without the right preparation. Postponing habits or laziness or casual attitude made them foolish and miss. (Matthew 25: 1-13)
Civilian affairs: Paul warns that a soldier cannot indulge in civilian pursuits. (II Timothy 2:3-4) Civilians are the majority, soldiers are a minority. Nevertheless, they are special, called, commissioned, and bestowed with responsibility. They cannot deviate from their position of duty to indulge in civilian pursuits that are illegal or illegitimate or immoral. All things are permissible but not for edification. (I Corinthians 6:12)
Busy here and there: Ahab fought against Ben-Hadad and defeated him. Ben-Hadad was a wicked king and God wanted to punish him. However, Ahab let him off and indeed made a covenant with him. (I Kings 20:26-34) God sends a prophet to Ahab, who spoke a parable. In a war, a soldier was assigned to keep custody of a prisoner. However, the soldier was not careful, the prisoner escaped: “And as your servant was busy here and there, he was gone.” (I Kings 20:40) Ahab gives judgment stating that the soldier must be sentenced to death for his lapse. The prophet indicated that Ahab let the prisoner Ben-Hadad, so God will punish Ahab. It was careless busyness.
Sadly, there are many weightlifter believers who are struck.
Do I lay aside unnecessary weights?