Knowing what is right is only part of the equation. Knowing when to implement it is the other. And we’re prone to cause much unnecessary suffering when we’re trying to do the right thing at the wrong time. We must remain courageous in our willingness to do what’s right, while also taking wisdom with us to know when to do it.
Of course, in the name of prudence many have become overly cautious. And, in practice, it’s essentially never the right time because there’s always more to consider. It’s fear and a lack of faith that demands for every contingency to be known and guaranteed outcomes before acting. Wisely counting the cost should not be confused with faithlessly holding back in fear.
On the other hand, it’s foolishness that rushes ahead without first considering the timing of our approach. For instance, this is the boss who wants to make changes without first considering the needs of his employees, the husband who wants to fix things for his wife without first hearing her heart, and the father who wants to correct his children before adequately teaching them first. Likewise, this might play out in considerations of a new job, vehicle, house, or the like.
Whatever it looks like, the effort might be good, right, and needed. But we must also consider our timing. And we risk unnecessary disruption and harm when we move too quickly. The right tool must be applied at the right time.
All too often it’s our pride that causes us to rush ahead. We like knowing we have what it takes to make a difference. And indeed we’ve been called to do just this. But humility calls us to thoughtfully consider when it’s best to offer our strength through action and when it’s best to wait for a more opportune time.
In the end, pray and consider the right thing to do. And continue praying to discern the right time.
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