Time For Everything
In Ecc 3:1, it says beautifully that there is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens. God has given us all 24 hours in a day to accomplish things and complete tasks. Many times and in many 'seasons', life can get busy and chaotic. If we don't learn how to take control and manage our time, time will begin to dictate to us what is it we can and cannot do.
First things first, I've learnt how to keep the 'first things' first, top priority, and that, for me, is spending quality time with God. I say quality time because I've had times where I read my Bible, prayed and worshipped but felt like it didn't do anything for me or change the course of my day. So, the key is to wake up, open your eyes and just give those few moments to God, before you get your coffee or newspaper, phone, emails, etc. Once you do that, your desire increases to spend a few more minutes with Him. In that time, decide to tune out from everything. I literally mean everything; work, dirty dishes, breakfast, emails, etc. All these will be screaming out for your attention all the time, so if you are not in control on how you are going to spend that few moments in the beginning of your day, you lose control of your time for the rest of the day. If you have kids and a spouse, you must wake up extra early, before they do, to make sure you have that quality time with the Lord and I tell you, He will surely help you in everything for the rest of the day. Giving Him that first portion of the day shows that He is first on your mind, He is first on your list, He is first in your heart and that's part of loving God with all your heart, soul and strength.
When you tune everything out and just focus on God in your prayer, worship and reading the Word, you are getting Him directly involved in your life, in your heart and in your day. There's a connection that takes place in that quality time whether it's 10 minutes or 1 hour. That connection is going to be your strength, motivation and guide for the rest of the day.
Secondly, have a schedule! It's not being boring or rigid! It's being wise, strategic and it helps you get more done in a day. Schedule time for the things you love. If you don't schedule time for the things you love, you will not be able to do them because work will take over your time. The key and aim is not to be balanced. Because no matter how hard you try, 'balance' will only take the quality out of your time. The key and aim is to be intentional and focused on what you're doing at a given moment. For example, if you are with your kids for only an hour a day, make that whole hour count by listening to them and sharing with them. Don't try to do other things in that hour that takes away the quality out of your time.
Learn to give your best in what you do when you're at something rather than half-past six input just for the sake of 'being able' to be balanced. Many people strive for balance rather than quality and life becomes mundane and less meaningful in prayer or reading the Word, less meaningful in a trip to the park, etc. Start by giving the first portion of your day to God and everything else will be added to you for the day.
Written by: Priscilla Francis
(SHINE Team)
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