You're Wasting Your Time!

Has anyone told you that before? But think: is it really your time?

Hey GEM girls!! Do you ever start reprimanding yourself after spending a considerable amount of time on YouTube, shaking your head while noticing all the time that has passed?

Sometimes I find myself fooling around and doing things that I didn't need to do right then, such as watching YouTube, texting friends, etc. These aren't in and of themselves "bad" things. I love watching classical musicians play on YouTube. It's good to communicate with friends and strengthen bonds with others. But because those things weren't necessary and were actually distracting me from my task, I would be disappointed that I wasted so much of my time, then resolve to spend it more wisely.

That's a good conclusion to make; however, I've now come to realize that it wasn't my time I was wasting--it was God's. He created time during the six days of Creation and gave it to humanity as a gift. We were to use it for His glory by strengthening our walk with Him and serving and encouraging all those in need of Jesus.

But unfortunately, due to our sinful nature, we've abused this gift. Instead of filling those times with prayers, we've filled them with social media time. Instead of filling those times by reaching out to others who are suffering, we've filled it with TV time.

Those are just examples, but wasting God's time can be by doing anything that isn't a part of His will. I know that I've wasted God's time countless times, and I feel guilty that I've done so. Our merciful, loving, abounding-in-grace Father who gave us His Son just wants the best for us. And He gave us time so that we could grow in Him and draw others to Him, things that will give us purpose and happiness. Psalm 16 says, "...in thy presence is fullness of joy" (verse 11). When we choose to use God's time for His glory, we are being in His presence and receiving His joy. Not only that, we are carrying on Jesus' work by blessing others.

Ellen G. White writes, "Parents should teach their children the value and right use of time. Teach them that to do something which will honor God and bless humanity is worth striving for. Even in their early years they can be missionaries for God" (Christ's Object Lessons, 345).

So as you can see, time isn't just time. Time is something we're to use for God! If you've realized that you could've been spending His time more wisely, don't be discouraged! I invite you to pray this prayer with me:

Lord,

Thank you for giving us the gift of time and the privilege of using it for Your glory. Forgive us for using this gift in our own selfish ways, and give us the awareness that time is Yours. Please cleanse our hearts from all sin and give us a new one that desires to serve You. Open our eyes to opportunities where we can glorify Your name. Thank You, Lord, for hearing our prayers and giving us a new heart and spirit (Ezekiel 36:26).

In Jesus' Name,

Amen.

So as I wrap up, think about how you're using God's time, and if you have any Bible verses to share that would encourage everyone to remember to use God's time according to His will, comment below!

Love you all!