Do you ever look back on certain seasons of your life and wonder where all the time went? Have you ever thought, “How could I have wasted that much time?” or “Why didn’t I spend more time focusing on the most important areas of life?”
We all know our time is limited and will run out some day, but we often don’t live with that reality in mind. Rather than investing consistent amounts of time in important things, we spend our time doing random things that have no cumulative value.
Investing in the relationships in your life and in your personal well-being requires constant effort and commitment. You can’t cram or pull an all-nighter, and you can’t make up for misspent time. In life’s most important areas, small deposits of time over time are what make all the difference.
But how do you navigate the invitations, opportunities, and decisions you face on a daily basis?
It all starts with one question. In light of my past experience, my current circumstances, and my future hopes and dreams, what is the wise thing to do with my time?
If this question becomes a filter through which you evaluate how you spend your time, you will end up making better decisions in every area of your life.
Look ahead to your desired future. In light of where you’ve been, what’s happening now, and where you want to be in the future, what do you need to do? Where do you need to begin making consistent deposits of time? Reallocating your time can set you up for healthy relationships with the most important people in your life and help create a future without regret.
Time is your most valuable asset. If you determine to live wisely by making the most of your time now, you’ll look back on this season and be glad you did.
Andy Stanley is a communicator, author, pastor and founder of Atlanta-based North Point Ministries, which includes Gwinnett Church in Sugar Hill and Hamilton Mill Church in Buford, as well as six other churches in metro Atlanta and a global network of nearly 100 partner churches.
