“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” Ephesians 5:15-17 (NIV)
Our days are filled with responsibilities and demands for our time. Work, family, church, school, marriage, children, aging parents, a sick loved one. The list goes on and on. You are truly gifted if you’ve found that healthy balance that allows you to accomplish all that you need to do, and still manage take on a “little” more; even if it costs you.
The cost? Maybe you’ll skip church or bible study. Perhaps you’ll miss date night or spending quality time with those you love. A little more stress today, a lot less sleep tomorrow. Whatever the cost, is taking on the effort worth it?
God has a plan and purpose for our lives; that means we have certain responsibilities we’ve been appointed to and everything else we take on is by our own choice. There’s only so much time in a day, so we should be wise and choose carefully how we spend the limited amount of time we’ve been given.
Ask yourself if this new task or project is a wise use of your time, talent and abilities, or will it only add stress and distract you from your true purpose. If the answer is no, then say “No!” You may disappoint a few people, but you will be pleasing God.
If you’re not sure how to respond, pray for discernment and ask the Lord to help you choose what he wants you to do, and to protect you from feeling guilty when you do say no. (I don’t know about you, but when I say no I feel guilty, so that’s how I pray).
Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 10:23 “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but not everything is constructive.”
True dat Paul!
Heavenly Father, help me be wise and discerning when it comes to my time, so I don’t miss accomplishing the plans you’ve set aside for me and me alone.
Hugs sisters. Be good. Make wise choices!
~Trish
This is a good word, Trish!
This is such a good word and a daily struggle in life. Thank you so much for writing about it Trish!