Blog Do I redeem my time by using it wisely?

We live in a society that is ever seeking ways to fill our time. Zip-out of bed in the morning. Zip-off to work to this or that activity or appointment. On Saturday, zip here and there—shopping, cleaning, catching up with “friends” on social media.. (There is always a to-do list.)

Do we take time to slow down and rest, even on Sundays? Sundays can be very full days. Even with a day of “rest,” we manage to keep busy. Work happens whether it's in the office or at home by Zoom or other media. There are still meetings to attend.

School for kids takes up time, even if online. God had something besides our hectic pace in mind when He inspired Paul to pen these words. “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” --Ephesians 5:15-16

What does making the most of our time even mean if it doesn’t mean filling every moment? God isn’t about wearing us out, but in building us up--mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Even He got away from the crowd to pray, to rest, and to be refreshed.

Making the most of our time refers to using our time wisely and in the most beneficial ways for our health and well-being--starting with a daily quiet time to start the day out with a calm, focused mind. Spending time communicating our “higher power” throughout the day, and meditating on His Word, helps us find direction for those hectic days.

How should we spend our time? Doing so wisely means taking time for family, spouse, and children--time to listen, to share, to hug, and to care. It means considering their needs important enough to be there when they need you and be 100% present, not only giving half your attention to them.

It means taking time to teach, to lead, to guide, to be an example. This type of relationship doesn’t just happen. It takes lots of time, effort, and attention.

Using time wisely means spending time with friends and neighbors, and building foundations for the long term. relationships. It means making and taking opportunities to show we care.

Using time wisely--redeeming the time--also means being careful what we put into our hearts, our minds, our homes, and our lives. This includes what we see, read, watch and play. It means time with family and friends isn’t at the bottom of our priority list.

Using time wisely doesn’t happen in a vacuum. We need to take stock of our activities and time, decide priorities, and budget time for those things deemed most to least important—starting by making time for faith, family, and friends.

Remember, redeeming our time is good for health mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Let’s redeem our time for our well-being and the health of those around us.

(C) 2021 Carolyn R Scheidies
Column in Kearney Hub published 2/15/21
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Read more like this in my book.From Listen! Who Me?