No Time to Waste

Do you ever feel like you don't have enough time or maybe you find yourself rushing from one place to another? The phrase "no time to waste" reminds us that we need to be intentional with how we spend our time.

Ephesians 5:15-17

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.

Just like money, we can spend it wisely or foolishly. Think for a moment about a time when you purchased an item and when you got home you found yourself asking "why did I buy this?"

When you realized it wasn't a necessity, were you filled with regret? Well, don't beat yourself up, we've all been there at some point. Instead of allowing the regret to shame you, look at it as a subtle reminder to be consciously aware of your spending habits. I like to think of it as God whispering to us, because He is always guiding our steps, so before we say or do anything we should consult with him first. Think about how differently our choices would be if we thought of God first! WOW can you imagine? I believe that is the secret to doing God's will and living an intentional life.

What is the thief of your time?

Is it social media, TV, or the internet? My thief is distractions. I find that when I am in the middle of doing something I'm continuously distracted by one thing or another and before I know it, I'm trying to complete multiple tasks at the same time and find myself feeling frustrated. Some say multi-tasking is a good thing, but I would challenge that statement, especially when it causes us to do a task halfheartedly.

Matthew 6:33

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.

Which is better: to complete a bunch of tasks haphazardly or to complete one task to the best of your ability? Remember everything we say or do is a representation of God, let's get ourselves in the habit of choosing excellence over convenience.

In the book "Hearing God's Voice" by Henry & Richard Blackaby we are reminded that Satan will offer us shortcuts to prevent us from doing our best. He will even excuse our sin by telling us it's okay because we are tired or too busy to do excellent work. When you find yourself excusing your behavior or attitude, understand that Satan is speaking to you, not God. We need to make sure we are obeying God and that our work brings honor to Him.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 tells us there's a time for every activity under heaven. Let's slow ourselves down so that we can avoid being mediocre.

Today I encourage you to stay mindful of what is stealing your time. I would even challenge you to set a timer so that you can train yourself to use that time wisely. Pay attention and see if you were able to stay on task or if you were interrupted by distractions.

If you are distracted start writing down all the distractions so that you can become aware of them.

Unlike money when we purchase an item, we don't need we can usually return it to the store where time does not allow for this. Once it's spent it's gone. Treat time as the precious and valuable gift that it is. Be thoughtful and intentional with your time and ask God for help with this.

Psalm 90:12 NIV

"Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."

Start your day by asking God what His plan is for your day....and watch how he guides you!

Isaiah 58:11 ESV

And the LORD will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.

Written by: Jill Theriault

Crossroads Coaching - @crossroadscoachingongodstime