JUNE 13, Proverbs 27:1

All week, Bee Ling had been very busy, so busy that she could not seem to find time to study for her weekly spelling test. There was always something more interesting to do – reading a book, going to gymnastics, playing a game or watching a television programme. “I’ll study tomorrow,” she told herself every night.

After school on Friday, Bee Ling slowly walked home, not at all eager to get home. She was sure her mother would ask about the spelling test. Sure enough, when Bee Ling finally went into the house, the question came. “How was your spelling test?”

“I failed,” admitted Bee Ling, feeling embarrassed. Mom looked disappointed but did not say anything. After dinner, Dad turned on the news. “Come and listen to this,” he called. “A lion has escaped from the zoo.”

Bee Ling and Mom joined him to hear the report. “Authorities are urging people who live near the zoo to stay indoors,” the reporter said. “Children should not play outside as long as the lion is on the loose.”

Bee Ling shivered. “I’m glad we don’t live near the zoo,” she said.

Mom nodded. “A lion on the loose can interfere with things we need to do,” she agreed. She looked thoughtful as she turned to Bee Ling. “Are you sure you haven’t met any lions lately?” asked Mom.

“Me? Where would I see lions?” wondered Bee Ling.

“Well,” said Mom, “I once read a story about a lion named Procrastinate. I thought you may have come across him. You see, to procrastinate means to postpone or put things off. The story I read warned that when ‘Procrastinate’ runs unleashed in our lives, he prevents us from doing what we should be doing, like studying.”

“We certainly need to tame that lion,” agreed Dad. “We have to decide which things are most important and take care of them before we take time for the things we do simply for our own pleasure.”

Bee Ling blushed. “My teacher says anyone who did poorly in the spelling test may retake it next Monday,” she said, after a moment. “I’m going to study hard for it this time.”

Thought: Are you waiting for another day to do something that should be done now?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me not to be like Bee Ling, the procrastinator, but to complete what needs to be done today, by today! In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.