Digging Deeper into Day 48 – A Balanced Life
There is an old saying that goes, a stitch in time saves nine. Meaning, if you have a little tear in your clothing, take time to sew up the little tear because if you don’t, the little tear will eventually become a big rip! The devil would prefer we ignore the little tears in life. Think about it. If I ignore the little things that need to be taken care of, the little responsibilities in daily life, they will build up. Mostly likely, the buildup will result in big inconveniences that could impact others, could impact more urgent matters and then, there-it-is, I’m either in-trouble, have caused trouble, embarrassed myself, missed an important deadline, disappointed someone (other than myself), and the list goes on.
To prevent this harried life-style, it is important to take care of the little things as they arise. However, that is not all; I must not over-extend myself. There is much to be said about living life with a margin, a buffer of time. Even Jesus made a point to have designated time alone. After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone. (Matthew 14:23 NASB).
Developing and practicing self-care and good time management and learning to say “no” is a skill. It does not just happen; it takes being intentional. One example of saying “no” would be, “I am honored you asked; however, I cannot accept that responsibility. I would not be able to give it the attention needed.”
Where in the Bible was Jesus in a rush? Nowhere! In fact, He delayed several days before going to see Lazarus (John 11 and 12). Did Jesus do whatever He wanted to do? No, Jesus did only what He saw His father do. (John 5:19) Was prayer a priority to Jesus? YES! He set aside time to pray; what a great example and encouragement for us to set aside time for prayer. To purposely live life with a margin, it takes planning around priorities.
Therefore, Jesus answered and was saying to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner.” (John 5:19 NASB)
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. (Eph. 5:15-17 KJV)
Today’s Challenge:
Spiritual challenge: set aside time for daily prayer and reading your Bible.
Daily life challenge: When setting goals, make sure to fine-tune them, making specific the tasks needed for completion. Have a daily calendar; prioritize the needs for the day over your wants. Include planned buffers for the day, throughout the day. Decline accepting new responsibilities if you are already fully committed, seeking the Lord’s guidance in all decisions.
Today’s Prayer:
Lord God, we thank You for Jesus’ perfect example of time management, taking time for Your word and prayer, as well as taking time to rest. Help us to make daily decisions that line up and are supported by Your plans for our lives. We know that when we make time for You every day, and when we line up with Your plans, rather than expecting You to line up with ours, our lives are more productive and enjoyable and pleasing to You.
Digging deeper blogs augment lessons from My Leadership Compass: A Christ-Centered High School Curriculum. © 2021
