Can you believe that 2023 is almost over? I dare say that most of us have asked that question recently. Thanksgiving came and went and Christmas is right around the corner. It seems like it went by like a blur. Maybe because I’m getting older or maybe because I’m always busy, my perception of time appears to be going by faster and faster. “Where does the time go?” I always seem to wonder. There just isn’t enough time in the day.
I am a middle school math teacher, and before I start each class, I like to spend a few minutes asking my students how they are doing. At that age, you just never know what answers you may hear. They are all over the place. There are always a few, however, that are refreshingly honest. This leads to a brief genuine discussion where I can share nuggets of wisdom and life lessons to them. One of those recent discussions was on the concept of time and how important it is to view each day as a gift and to be thankful for it. It was such an encouraging way to start the class that day. Of course, when you are young, you don’t really think about it too much. It’s not until we get a little older and have more responsibility do we pay more attention to it. Let’s face it, life happens.
The truth is that God has given us all a limited time here on earth. The big question is what are we doing with it? As believers in Christ, are we spending it in the most productive ways? Are we getting caught up in the affairs of this world or are we seeking and fulfilling God’s calling in our lives? Consider the words of Paul:
Ephesians 5:15-17
So, then, be careful how you live. Do not be unwise but wise, making the best use of your time because the times are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
Paul is an excellent example of how to handle time. He experienced quite a life for Christ after his encounter with Jesus. Three missionary journeys, imprisonment, being shipwrecked, and wrote most of the New Testament to name a few things. He understood the truth and what the Lord’s will was in his life. He had his struggles like we all do, but he continued to walk in God’s wisdom.
Now, our time may all look different from one another’s because God has a unique calling for each of us. The dynamics will vary based on our situations, but walking in God’s plan will help us grow in true wisdom and give us assurance of His presence and power in our lives.
As we see in the world around us today, times are more evil than ever. The Book of Revelation has come to life. Time will pull us in all types of directions, some necessary and good and some not so much. As long as we continue to walk in God’s will, however, it will be quality time!
Wayne Errig