Are you turning in assignments at the ripe time of 11:59, when they are due at midnight? Maybe you are pushing back the overflowing tasks at work? Or you might be searching for the right time in your schedule to read your Bible.

Everyone has dealt with procrastination in some capacity.

I started thinking about this because not only is my sister about to start college, but my dad has recently started to take college classes whilst working a full time job and providing for our family. When you’re coming home from a long day at work, sometimes it’s hard to just to cook or clean, much less doing homework for three classes. My sister and I have unintentionally taught our dad to be a master of procrastination. And don’t get me started on my mom, she only packs for a five day trip hours before leaving. And she doesn’t forget anything! It’s pretty impressive I have to say.

While procrastination isn’t a sin, it is important as believers to keep ourselves in check with how our daily habits are comparing to scripture.

Let’s take a moment and discover just exactly why we as humans procrastinate. Then discuss not only how to avoid it, but what God’s word instructs us to do when we find ourselves delaying just about… everything.

Why do we procrastinate?

Scientists have discovered that procrastination is our attempt to regulate emotions like boredom, anxiety, self-doubt, and so much more. Which means we can all feel a little better about ourselves knowing that procrastination isn’t a result of laziness, it’s just a coping mechanism.

Maybe like me, you’ve wished before there was a magic pill you could take to rid yourself of the nasty habit of procrastination and while there is no quick fix, here are 5 tips that are sure to help:

1. Be Willing to Ask for Help

“Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.” | Galatians 6:2

This is easier said than done. When you are having trouble completing something, it is important to have a support system to talk to. Whether that be a trusted co-worker, a therapist, or a best friend, it is beneficial to lighten your load and give someone you trust an opportunity to serve you.

2. Cut Out Distractions

“Anyone who lets himself be distracted from the work I plan for him is not fit for the Kingdom of God.” | Luke 9:62

Yeesh…that was harsh. Don’t worry, we’re all guilty of letting distractions get the best of us. Our brains have been wired to check every notification that pops up on our screens. Proverbs 4 talks about getting sidetracked and keeping your path straight. When we make our lives an act of worship by giving our best work, we will find focus, and the Lord delights in that!

Remember, Ecclesiastes 3 says that there is a season for everything and it’s important to find and make time for rest. Even Jesus took naps! So when the time is right: put the phone away, turn off Netflix, and find yourself some true rest instead of life’s many distractions.

3. Give Yourself Grace

^“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.” | Mark 12:30-31

Jesus says to love your neighbor as yourself. But when you don’t even show yourself grace and forgiveness, how are you supposed to love others and give that same grace? You can’t pour from an empty cup. Encourage yourself through God’s promises and His word. You are loved and you fearfully & wonderfully made even if you struggle with procrastination.

4. Pray When You’re Overwhelmed

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” | Philippians 4:6-7

God is always willing and waiting to have a conversation with you. When life gets overwhelming, we can cry out to Him. And it says if we ask, we will receive (John 16:24). If you struggle with procrastination, ask God for motivation. Be specific and vulnerable. He is the best support system you could ever have.

5. Find Jesus in Everything

“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” | Colossians 3:23

Sometimes we just need a reminder that God is the creator of the universe and His presence is everywhere. In the small tasks, the big projects, the packing, the cleaning, the meetings, in all the busyness of life God is there and He’s cheering you on! Make it a goal to find Him in your surroundings/work and make that your motivation.

And if you’re procrastinating on your work by reading this blog, thank you for reading… but you should probably get back to work now 😉

Is It Possible to Stop Dreading Mondays?