Managing our time is an important aspect of our Christian growth and maturity. If we cannot manage our time well, chances are that we either live in chaos, something is being neglected, or we are not making progress. God has given us the confines of time to help us work within its boundaries. These boundaries force us to prioritize our goals and activities and, at the same time, maintain peace and order in our lives.
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Ephesians 5:15-17 (NIV)
Every day is a gift and opportunity from the Lord. When the sun rises, we are given a fresh brand new day that is meant to be lived out intentionally. The Lord through Paul tells us to be wise about our opportunities. We are instructed to be diligent and not to be lazy, but there is more to being wise than just being diligent.
There are many good activities and causes that we can be involved with, but we need to decide which ones we are supposed to commit to. According to the above scripture, the difference between a wise and unwise person is understanding the will of the Lord. A wise person has studied the Bible, consulted the Lord, and has unity with their spouse (if married) about their commitments and activities.
I am reminded of the parable of the virgins (Matthew 25;1-13). The difference between the wise ones and the foolish ones were that the wise ones kept the vision, were prepared, and expected the bridegroom’s arrival, but the foolish ones lost the focus, were unprepared, and fell asleep.
The passing of time and activities has a way of dulling our senses making us lose the urgency of the moment. We can get lulled by all the commotion around us and lose the vision of what our lives are all about. Sometimes we don’t see the value of what we accomplish in a day, so we decide there should be something better, more exciting, or more interesting that can be done with our time.
Lord, help us to know your will in regards to our time. How would you like us to use our time? Help us to hear your promptings above our own desires. Amen.
