Using our time wisely: Embracing God's priorities

 

“So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” – Psalm 90:12 (ESV)

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Psalm 90:12 reminds us of the importance of numbering our days and seeking wisdom. But how can we intentionally use our time wisely on a regular basis in light of God's priorities? Let's explore some practical ways to align our lives with His will and make the most of the time we've been given.

Understanding the value of time

Time is a precious gift from God, and each day is an opportunity to grow closer to Him and fulfill His purposes. By recognizing the fleeting nature of our days, we can develop a heart of wisdom that guides our decisions and actions. This wisdom helps us prioritize what truly matters and avoid getting caught up in the distractions of the world. It's true that life happens and it's our jobs to prioritize when life gets to lifing. Just remembering that we should put God first, then our spouse, family, etc., will help us to navigate life in a very prioritized fashion. 

Seeking God's priorities 

To use our time wisely, we must first understand God's priorities. These include:

1. Loving God and loving others: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'" Matthew 22: 37-39. As indicated in the previous passage, the greatest commandments are to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind and to love others as we love ourselves. This means dedicating time to worship, prayer, and acts of kindness. 
2. Spiritual growth: God desires for us to grow in our faith and knowledge of Him. This may look like spending time in His Word, participating in fellowship with other believers, or seeking spiritual disciplines. What this looks like may appear a little different depending on the season you are walking through currently. 
3. Serving others: We are called to serve and care for those in need. While many see this as the work of field missionaries, we must remember that God calls some to be community missionaries at home. This can be through volunteering, offering support to friends and family, or simply by being a listening ear. 
4. Rest and renewal: God values rest and renewal. Taking time to rest, reflect, and recharge is essential for maintaining our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Take one day a week to disconnect from life's distractions and reconnect and recharge with your Lord and Savior along with your family. 

Practical steps to use time wisely

• Set Priorities: Begin by identifying your top priorities in light of God's will. Make a list of what matters most and allocate time for these activities each day.
• Create a Schedule: Plan your days and weeks with intentionality. Use a planner or digital calendar to schedule time for prayer, Bible study, family, work, and rest.
• Eliminate Distractions: Identify and minimize distractions that consume your time. This may include limiting screen time, setting boundaries with social media, or creating a focused work environment.
• Practice Gratitude: Cultivate a heart of gratitude by reflecting on God's blessings each day. This practice can help you stay focused on what truly matters and appreciate the time you have.
• Seek Accountability: Share your goals and priorities with a trusted friend or mentor. Having someone to encourage and hold you accountable can help you stay on track.
• Be Flexible: Life is unpredictable, and it's important to remain flexible. Trust that God is in control and be open to adjusting your plans as needed.

In closing, using our time wisely is a journey of aligning our lives with God's priorities. By seeking His wisdom and guidance, we can make the most of each day and live a life that honors Him. This month, let's commit to numbering our days and embracing the heart of wisdom that comes from walking closely with our Creator.