Don't Waste Your Time

Life is measured in time. If we waste time, doing nothing of value with it, then we waste our lives. If we waste time, we are obviously not doing what we’re here to do.

Psalm 90:12 (KJV) says:

So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.

Our days are numbered, meaning that we only have so many days that make up our lives. We must ask God for wisdom to live the way he wants us to live during the time we have in this life.

The New Living Translation (NLT) phrases it like this:

Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom.

A fool wastes time, but a person with understanding and wisdom knows how to prioritize his or her day. The wise person has margin built into the day, allowing time for the unexpected. Wise people use time wisely, maintaining order and balance within their schedules.

Learn to say no to the things that are not truly important, and do what God wants instead. And be diligent to follow the dream God has placed in your heart so that you are pursuing what God intended and not just what others expect of you. Yes, it is important to make time for others, but not all of your time.

Keep in mind that what we do on this earth; how we loved God, other people, and even ourselves, will determine our place and position in eternity. Our faithfulness and service will impact our eternal rewards. Of course, we are saved by faith in Christ and not by works, but our works and our motives will determine our rewards- now and in eternity.

Ask yourself, “What am I doing with my time? Is it being used wisely, or am I doing a lot of things that are taking me away from what I should do?” Be honest with yourself. I would even recommend keeping a diary of your activities for a few days to see how your days, hours, and even minutes are spent. If you keep an honest log of your time, it will be a real eye-opener.

Now ask yourself, “Is this want I want in life? How can I adjust my priorities and activites to reflect what I really believe I am called to do?” Then, take some real action to improve how you use your time.

Ephesians 5:16 makes clear that we are not to waste our time. Here it is in the Amplified Bible (AMP):

Making the very most of your time [on earth, recognizing and taking advantage of each opportunity and using it with wisdom and diligence], because the days are [filled with] evil.

When we make the most of our time, then the time we spend will end up making the most of us. Once time is gone, it’s gone. We have just a brief window of time to accomplish what God put us here to do. Invest your time wisely, and the results will benefit you and glorify God.