Discover the Life-Changing Lesson: Do the Next Thing - Insights from Elisabeth Elliot

Do the Next Thing: A Lesson from Elisabeth Elliot

Elisabeth Elliot was a Christian author, speaker, and missionary who dedicated her life to serving God. She lived a life of faithfulness, courage, and obedience, and her teachings still inspire and challenge believers today. One of her most famous sayings was, "Do the next thing." It sounds simple, but it is a profound lesson that can transform our lives.

The Meaning of "Do the Next Thing"

When Elisabeth Elliot first heard the news that her husband, Jim Elliot, had been killed by the Auca Indians in Ecuador, she was devastated. She had just received their wedding pictures in the mail, and she was looking forward to being reunited with her beloved husband. But instead, she was faced with the news of his death.

In the midst of her grief and confusion, a friend came to her and said, "Elisabeth, just do the next thing." At first, she didn't understand what her friend meant. But as she thought about it, she realized that it was a simple, yet profound, piece of advice. Instead of focusing on the big picture or worrying about the future, she needed to focus on the next thing that she needed to do.

For Elisabeth, the next thing was to pack up her belongings, say goodbye to her friends, and return to the United States. It was a small, practical step, but it was something that she could do in the midst of her grief. And as she continued to do the next thing, she found that God was faithful to guide her and provide for her.

The Importance of Doing the Next Thing

So often in life, we can become overwhelmed by the big picture. We worry about the future, we stress about things that are out of our control, and we can become paralyzed by fear and anxiety. But when we focus on doing the next thing, we can break free from that cycle of worry and fear.

When we do the next thing, we are taking practical steps towards our goals. We are making progress, even if it is just a small step. We are also trusting in God's guidance and provision. As Jesus said in Matthew 6:34, "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."

When we focus on doing the next thing, we are also living in the present moment. We are not dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. We are fully engaged in the task at hand, whether that is washing dishes, writing a report, or spending time with our family.

How to Apply "Do the Next Thing" in Your Life

So how can we apply "Do the next thing" in our own lives? Here are some practical steps:

1. Identify the Next Thing

Take a moment to think about what the next thing is that you need to do. It might be a small task, like making your bed or answering an email. Or it might be a bigger task, like finishing a project or planning a trip. Whatever it is, identify it and focus on that task alone.

2. Trust in God's Guidance and Provision

As you do the next thing, trust in God's guidance and provision. Remember that He is with you, and He will provide everything you need to accomplish the task at hand. As Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."

3. Stay Present in the Moment

As you do the next thing, stay present in the moment. Don't let your thoughts wander to the past or the future. Focus on the task at hand and give it your full attention. As Colossians 3:23-24 says, "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."

4. Take Small Steps

Remember that doing the next thing doesn't always mean taking a big leap forward. Sometimes it means taking small steps towards your goal. Don't be afraid to take small steps, because each one is important. As the saying goes, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."

5. Persevere in Faithfulness

Finally, remember to persevere in faithfulness. Doing the next thing is not always easy, and there will be times when you feel discouraged or overwhelmed. But as you continue to do the next thing, you will find that God is faithful to guide and provide for you. As Galatians 6:9 says, "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."

Conclusion

Elisabeth Elliot's life and teachings continue to inspire Christians around the world. Her simple, yet profound, advice to "Do the next thing" is a lesson that we can all apply in our own lives. By focusing on the next thing that we need to do, trusting in God's guidance and provision, staying present in the moment, taking small steps, and persevering in faithfulness, we can make progress towards our goals and live a life that honors God.

So the next time you feel overwhelmed or anxious, remember the words of Elisabeth Elliot: "Do the next thing." And trust in God's faithfulness to guide you every step of the way.