“The important thing is not whether we have the time, but how we use the time we are given.” C.S. Lewis
Your lifetime is a gift from God to you. You didn't earn it, you didn't pay for it. And in the end you will not extend it. It is limited and irretrievably over when it runs out. The question is: what do you make of it?
In Psalm 90:12, David says: “Teach us to remember that we must die, that we may become wise.” If you want to be wise, here's the key: remember that your days are numbered. God has given you a limited time on this earth, and it's up to you to use it wisely.
Jesus made the most of his time
Jesus Christ is the perfect example of how to use your lifetime effectively. He came with a mission and fulfilled it in just a few years. We hardly know anything about his childhood and youth. And yet the three and a half years of his public life changed the history of the world. He dedicated every day to fulfilling his mission - to show people God's love. In John 9:4, Jesus says: “We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work.” Jesus knew that his time was short and used every moment to fulfill God's will.
The battle for your attention
Now more than ever, you can waste your valuable time. In a digitalized world, the battle for your attention has become a real fight for survival.
As if he had a premonition back then, Paul admonishes all believers in Ephesians 5:15-16: “Take heed therefore how you walk circumspectly, not as unwise but as wise, buying up the time, because the days are evil.”
Whether it's social media, YouTube, sport, television or excessive relationships. Your God-given mission is constantly competing with distractions through entertainment. The first step is to realize that it will end up costing you YOUR mission.
How to get out
Your priorities are your choice. Every day. Every hour. Every single click is in your hands. Jesus once said in Matthew 6:33: “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Use your time, money and energy first and foremost for the kingdom of God. His promise says: He will take care of everything else you need.
What if you don't make it?
Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 10:13: "So far you have been tempted only by human temptation. But God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but at the same time will provide the way out, so that you will be able to bear it."
What this passage tells you is: “There is always a way out of temptation.” Sometimes you need others to support you. People who you give the right to critically question your behavior. Mentors who keep reminding you of your commitment and check up on how you are doing. Don't fight alone. In the end, you will be as strong as the team you have around you.
How can I be sure of that?
Stelle Gott auf die Probe. Wie kannst du es herausfinden, wenn du es nicht ausprobierst? Um fair zu sein: Sei dir im Klaren darüber, dass Jesus in Matthäus 6,33 nicht sagt: "Du bekommst alles, was du willst." Er gibt dir, was du brauchst. Und wie ein liebevoller Vater besser weiß, was sein Kind braucht, wird Gott sich auch die Freiheit herausnehmen, dir das zu geben, was gut für dich ist.
My personal experience
My family and I have been living as missionaries in Peru for years. Did we always get what we prayed for? No. Has God surprised us again and again with his generosity, which we did not even ask for? Most certainly: Yes! Am I still tempted to take things into my own hands? Yes. And at the same time I am a learner.
Action-Steps
- Set clear goals: Think about what you want to achieve in your life. Ask God what his vision is for your life. This goal will help you stay focused and use your time effectively.
- Create a plan: Your mission is what will bring you to the fulfillment of your vision. Break the big task down into small, daily steps. Plan your day in advance. Prioritize and stick to your plan to ensure you complete the tasks that will bring you closer to your goal.
- Reduce distractions: Identify the biggest distractions in your life and find ways to minimize them. Turn off your cell phone. It's best to put it in another room. Plan “focus times” when no one and nothing is allowed to disturb you.
- Make time for God: Spend time regularly in prayer and studying the Bible. This is how God will speak to you. If you have doubts, start small. Take times of reflection and refueling. They are crucial for setting your priorities right and focusing on what is important.