This is the last time
Ever said that before? Ever heard that song by Trey Songz? Is there a such thing as a last time. Here is a hint to the wise. Whenever you say this is the last time, that means you are addicted. It can be to crack-cocaine, a person, gambling, drugs, wild spending, drinking, hitting that woman, a wild sex escapade, stealing from your family (or whatever it is you do you say you ain’t gone do no more).
As long as you are saying this is the last time, truth is, you are playing a word game with yourself and mind. What you are really saying is I know I should not be doing this, but I am going to do this one last time until I cannot hold out anymore. Ironically, this behavior may eventually lead to the desired goal; however, it poses great danger to keep going to the well. Maybe you should stop while you are ahead.
Now some things we need to leave alone for a period of time (e.g., certain foods during a fast); some things we just need to leave alone period (yeah, that)!
Now, there is a difference between what should be the last time between just wait until the next appropriate time. Some times it is a relationship that needs to be put on hold. For example, you know that cousin who you love, but is in to some crazy things you do not want your family to be around. Or that co-worker who betrayed you or let you down on the last project. Sometimes you have to put people on hold and show them tough love or love them enough to remove yourself until you have your act together.
In the book of Philemon http://bibleresources.bible.com/passagesearchresults.php?passage1=Philemon+1&version=49, Paul asks Philemon to accept his former slave Onesimus back into his house. Paul asks that Philemon forgives his debts totally and accepts this new and improved person. Paul admits to Philemon that at one time Onesimus was unprofitable, but now he is profitable. In fact, he told him his leaving may have been a secret blessing because it was at this low point Onesimus found his way.
Bottom Line: Some things were meant to stay others were meant to leave and go away. But, some things were meant to go away forever. Know the difference and act accordingly. And, remember saying it is the last time does not make it the last time. Only in action does these words hold any significance. If you are saying this is the last time or this should be the last time, listen to yourself, it is a reason why you said it in the first place… you know more than you think you do!!!
Good Bye to the last time, if you can understand
The BLAQUESMITH
Take Care!