Spending Your Time

 

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but ube filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ. (Ephesians 5:15-21 ESV).

 

Our reading today gives us a moment to think about using our time well. There are certainly lots of books, articles, podcasts, and videos that have been produced to share the latest and greatest tips on how best to use the time we have in our lives. Some of the ideas are great for building relationships, caring for others, getting an education, working efficiently, and even planning for retirement. As we grow older, many of us realize that we have wasted some time along the way, and we may have regrets about that. While we cannot gain back the hours we have spent, we can seek to change how we live. We can make the most of the time ahead of us. The Apostle Paul is telling us that the way we spend our time with God and with others matters.

 

As I have found myself unable to do as much as I once could, I have also discovered that doesn’t excuse idleness. Please do not hear me say that I don’t take naps and rest more than I did in the past. I do. Health issues have developed that sitting still has become a regular routine much more than in years past. However, let me also say that is not idleness. Idleness is when we simply don’t live intentionally. I like the cartoon I saw recently. The characters exchange quips: “We only live once,” and the comeback line says, “We only die once; we live every day.” What matters is how we live every day.

 

There is wisdom in that practice. Usually, I rely on what I am producing by the things I spend my time doing. Sometimes the result is simply a rejuvenating of the body; at other times, it is the creation of something new. The real key is being purposeful.

Paul urges us, “Don’t waste the time that you have.” Aim to live with no regrets. Live fully with the life you have been given in Christ.