Decently and In Order
written by Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“But all things should be done decently and in order. ”
We are already well into the New Year. For many, resolutions are already taking a back seat. So, I remind you of one of the most famous “Presbyterian statements” in sacred Scripture. Our Presbyterian Book of Order emphasizes the Apostle Paul’s commitment to living one’s life “decently and in order.” Decently and in order is more than a cute phrase; it reminds us that God appreciates an organized mind. God calls us to reflect on what (and who) we value. You struggle to consider life choices when your mind is constantly scattered.
Living decently and in order calls the faithful to organize our lives so we take advantage of the time God has given us. There are so many loud expectations at home, work, online, and in our social lives that it is easy to ignore God’s whispered call. Faithful living requires us to know our priorities and live them. Setting priorities is a good start, but we are just getting started. When challenges arise, you must remember your priorities and make decisions based on those commitments. To do otherwise is idolatry because you are valuing something other than what God has in mind for you at the moment.
Next, you need to review your vision and goals each day. Your values will slip into the background if they are not in your mind daily. Setting priorities requires saying “no” more than saying “yes.” Most of us feel guilty when we do not meet others’ expectations. It takes courage and determination to put your prayerfully created vision ahead of others’ requests. You can stand your ground when your vision is clear, which is best for you and others.
Finally, living decently and in order requires continuity in all parts of your life. When you organize your work life, but your home life is chaotic, the discontinuity negatively affects every aspect of life. If you take good notes for organized living, but your work and home space are disorganized, your mind will feel scattered. The New Year is a great time to push your personal and professional reset button. Embrace a decently and in order lifestyle. You cannot transform a messy life in an afternoon, but your world will transform if you commit to asking for God’s support in this area regularly and make at least one change daily. In time, a decently and in order life will be less of a struggle.
