Time: Our Most Precious Resource
In our fast-paced world, time often feels like a scarce commodity. We rush from one task to the next, constantly feeling the pressure of deadlines and commitments. But have we stopped to consider how we're using this precious gift?
Let's take a moment to reflect on some startling statistics about how we spend our time:
We spend roughly one-third of our lives sleeping.
The average person spends over 32,000 hours eating and drinking in their lifetime.
We'll spend nearly 38,000 hours driving a car.
Work consumes over 90,000 hours of our lives.
Screen time has skyrocketed, with the average person spending over 6 hours a day connected to the internet.
Television watching accumulates to about 9 years of our lives.
William Penn once said, "Time is what we want most, but what we use the worst." This statement rings true when we examine our habits and routines. We often find ourselves wasting time on activities that don't align with our values or contribute to our spiritual growth.
But here's the good news: God doesn't change, even as the world around us evolves at breakneck speed. In 1 Timothy 4:16, we're encouraged to "take heed" and pay close attention to our lives and teachings. This isn't just for our own benefit, but for those around us as well.
Ephesians 5:15-16 urges us to "be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days." The original text speaks of "redeeming the time" – reclaiming what might have been lost or wasted.
This concept of redeeming time is powerful. It means that even our past mistakes and regrets can be transformed into opportunities for growth and ministry. God can use our experiences – even the painful ones – to help others who are going through similar struggles.
As we contemplate our mortality, Psalm 39:4-5 offers a sobering perspective: "Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered – how fleeting my life is. You have made my life no longer than the width of my hand. My entire lifetime is just a moment to you. At best, each of us is but a breath."
This isn't meant to depress us, but to inspire us to live with intention and purpose. When we realize the brevity of our lives, we're motivated to make each moment count for eternity.
So how do we begin to redeem our time and live with greater purpose? Here are a few suggestions:
Slow down and walk with the Savior. Jesus spent three years walking with his disciples, covering over 3,000 miles on foot. Imagine the conversations and teachings that took place during those journeys. We're invited to walk with Him too, but are we too busy rushing past these opportunities for intimacy?
Be devoted to prayer. Colossians 4:2-5 encourages us to "devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart." Even in difficult circumstances – like the Apostle Paul chained in prison – we can make the most of every opportunity to share the gospel.
Live wisely among non-believers. Our actions and words should reflect Christ, especially to those who don't know Him. Every interaction is an opportunity to demonstrate God's love and truth.
Embrace each new day as a gift. Psalm 118:24 reminds us, "This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it." Instead of dwelling on yesterday's troubles, choose to see each day as a fresh start and an opportunity to serve God.
Recognize that now is the time for salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2 declares, "For he says, 'In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.' I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation." Don't put off turning to God or deepening your relationship with Him.
As we reflect on how we use our time, let's consider what legacy we're leaving for future generations. Material possessions and worldly accomplishments will fade, but a life devoted to Christ has eternal significance. What are we passing down to our children and grandchildren? Is it something that will truly last?
The invitation is clear: surrender everything to Christ. Let go of the things that are holding you back from fully embracing God's purpose for your life. Raise your white flag, as the song says, and declare that "the war is over, love has come, and love has won."
In practical terms, this might mean:
Reevaluating your priorities and how you spend your time
Setting aside regular moments for prayer and Bible study
Looking for opportunities to serve others and share your faith
Being intentional about building relationships that encourage spiritual growth
Letting go of habits or pursuits that distract you from your walk with God
Remember, it's never too late to start living with purpose. God is in the business of redeeming time and transforming lives. He can take your past regrets and failures and use them for His glory.
As you go about your day, consider the words of Psalm 90:12: "Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom." Let this awareness inspire you to make the most of every moment, living fully for Christ and leaving a legacy of faith for generations to come.
Your time on earth is limited, but your impact can be eternal. How will you use the precious gift of time today?
