A friend and one of my mentors in life and ministry died yesterday. She had an amazing journey whilst here on earth and I grew and was a better person from knowing her.
As I reflected on my friend Isobel's life it was a reminder of why God encourages us to redeem the time; in that, we make the most of every opportunity we have been given in life.
He encourages us to live in constant awareness of how precious time is and to seek to make a lasting impact and to be a blessing in who we are and all we do. (Titus 3:8)
The truth is, we are all given an equal amount of time each day. It’s how we use that time that determines its value.
God encourages us in His word how to be wise with our time and instructs us to:
“Watch your step. Use your head. Make the most of every chance you get. These are desperate times!
“Don’t live carelessly, unthinkingly. Make sure you understand what the Master wants. ” (Ephesians 5:15-16 The Message)
To redeem the time means to regain possession of it. It’s choosing to walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as the wise.
When we are with those in our world; our friends, children, our partner, and those we meet, it’s about not being careless, worried, or distracted by those things that really don’t matter in the long term.
When we have dreams and goals in our hearts it’s taking hold of our opportunities and the time and resources we do have in our hands and not wasting it. God always wants to do far more than we can ever dream, think or pray for but he does expect us to take what we have and be good stewards of it. (Colossian 4:5; Ephesians 3;20)
Some keys to making the most of your time are to:
1. Never take your relationships and God’s open doors in your life for granted. Time is precious so do not waste it on delays, distractions, or giving into your fears and insecurities.
“There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
“Be strong and courageous and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you” (1 Chronicles 28:20)
2. Seek wisdom and God’s direction. Ask for God to show you the strategies and open doors of possibilities so that you'll see those God’s opportunities and blessings when they open up before you.
“But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear.” (Matthew13:16)
“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people.” (Ephesians 1:18)
“Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut”. (Revelation 3:8)
3. Pay attention to detail while keeping the big picture in mind. This will help you remain focused and free from frivolous distractions. We redeem time when we value it and use it wisely to fulfill what God has called us to accomplish.
“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. “ (Ephesians 2:10 NLT)
Today, as you schedule and plan your day remember the life you are living isn't a rehearsal. Embrace all the dreams, purpose, experiences, relationships, and blessings God's planned for your life, and determine that you will seek to accomplish all He has for you.
Prayer: Lord, please help me to walk wisely and to redeem the time so that I can take hold of, experience, and make the most of every opportunity you have for me today. Thank you that your plans for me are always good and full of hope and a future. In Jesus name Amen.