As we approach the New Year, resolutions to better ourselves and achieve success come to mind. Unfortunately, some resolutions are recycled from the previous year. Our biggest problem would be what to do with so much leisure time! I know what you are thinking, "I had no leisure time!" However, adults in the U.S. spend an average of 485 minutes (eight hours and five minutes) daily with television and social media.
Ephesians 5:15–17 offers guidance on prioritizing and setting the course for 2024, highlighting three truths for consideration.
"See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is." - Ephesians 5:15-17
Our time on Earth is Short
"Lord, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is: that I may know how frail I am." - Psalm 39:4
Perspective matters; we lack infinite days or multiple lives to fulfill roles like obedient Christians, great spouses, godly parents, and loyal friends. Psalm 90:12 further emphasizes the importance of numbering our days for wisdom.
Imagine we all had a clock tracking the remaining years of one's life. While the goal should be wise living, not frivolous indulgence, believers must avoid boasting of tomorrow, recognizing their numbered days.
Make the Most of Every Opportunity
Paul often urges this way of living, emphasizing the need to redeem time in an era where people invest in worthless pursuits. We must recognize that we are to seize every opportunity to learn of Jesus. If we are not wise, we can miss what Mary saw. Martha was busy with things that was good to do, but she was not careful about attending to the best.
Our lives often become a flurry of activity without time dedicated to sitting with Jesus, we have allowed Satan to steal something very important from us. It is easy to be overcome with commitments and possessions, but we must make wise choices.
Believers are called to live fruitful lives, seizing opportunities to live for Jesus and avoiding Satan's attempts to divert them toward the useless.
We Must Understand The Will Of God
I would never suggest that I know God's will specifically for anyone's life but mine. I would guide all of us about discovering and doing His will in the New Year. Make your greatest priority your relationship with the Lord. This priority aligns with church attendance, devotional time, family time, and spending and giving practices.Â
When our relationship with the Lord becomes our number one priority, it is incredible how our whole perspective on life falls into a worthwhile pattern.
Prioritizing this relationship can reshape one's perspective on life.
Many people live with the motto "Seize the Day!". Let's seize the day, the year, the life - but add to that thought: "Seize the day to the glory of God!"