Elisabeth Elliot was this mom’s mentor in the young years of my parenting.  She spoke common sense; and she did not allow the fear of man to be a snare.  She plainly divided the Word of Truth and applied it to everyday, commonplace life whether it was popular or not.  She gave me a mantra in those early days which helped when I found it difficult to keep my head above water while rearing and oft-times homeschooling four extraordinary children.  It is brought to mind and found useful even to this day.  Her mantra? Do the next thing.

Somewhere along the way I had forgotten that this wonderfully practical advice came to Mrs. Elliot via an old poem.  Justin Taylor recently highlighted the poem (author unknown) in its full.  It helps to flesh out this simple saying and reminds us of the resource we have when we know not what else to do.  Over the years I’ve heard the variation – do the next right thing – which can be a helpful determiner when faced with a number of options.

On this new year, if we resolve nothing further, let us resolve to do this one thing – do the next thing.

Do the Next Thing,
author unknown

From an old English parsonage down by the sea,
There came in the twilight a message to me.
Its quaint Saxon legend deeply engraven
Hath, as it seems to me, teaching from heaven.
And all through the hours the quiet words ring,
Like low inspiration – Do the next thing.

Many a questioning, many a fear,
Many a doubt hath its quieting here.
Moment by moment, let down from heaven,
Time, opportunity, guidance are given:
Fear not tomorrow, child of the King,
Trust them with Jesus, do the next thing.

Do it immediately, do it with prayer,
Do it reliantly, casting all care.
Do it with reverence, tracing His hand,
Who placed it before thee with earnest command.
Stayed on omnipotence, safe ‘neath His wing,
Leave all results, do the next thing.

Looking to Jesus, ever serener,
Working or suffering by thy demeanor;
In His dear presence, the rest of His calm,
and the light of His countenance, be for thy psalm.
Strong in His faithfulness, praise and sing;
Then, as He beckons thee, do the next thing.