In an effort to increase my vocabulary, I used to receive an email called “Word of the Day.”  I was familiar with some of the words; others caused me to say, “huh?”  Most days I read through the definition and promptly forgot it.  But some of the words made an impression and caused me to pause and ponder.

One such word is velleity (vu-lee-a-tee). Ever heard of it?  Ever used it in a sentence?  I hadn’t.  It is a noun that describes volition in its weakest form; A mere wish, unaccompanied by an effort to obtain it.  Ah… now that I am familiar with!

For example – learning to speak Spanish.  Oh, I want to.  I desire with all my heart to be able to communicate with my dear Hispanic friends. But so far my desire is velleity – a mere wish without the work it takes to make it come true.  I’m totally open for the Lord to give me the gift of Spanish tongues, but so far, nothing doing. 🙂

Many times we talk a big talk about having a great marriage… a great prayer life… life-enhancing friendships… but we do little to achieve the goal.  We wish things would get better.  We hope the situation is going to turn around.  But we are unwilling to make the sacrifices necessary for lasting change.

Proverbs 26:15 gives us an apt picture:  “The sluggard buries his hand in the dish; he is too lazy to bring it back to his mouth.” (NIV)

Wishing and hoping will not change our lives.  Faith-filled, prayerful action will.

Let’s take our hand out of the dish called complacency, accompany our wishes with some effort and forget “wishing upon a star!”   Not only will we find more fulfilling relationships, we will also find ourselves living lives that bring pleasure and glory to “the bright Morning Star.” (Rev. 22:16)