How do you redeem your time?
Time flies, doesn't it! I remember as a kid thinking that the summer and the school year were both an entire year. Now, seasons fly by, and I am left almost reeling about how fast it is happening. (Click here for an interesting article about why, when we age, time seems to speed up.)
This week I finished a show on my streaming service, so last night, I was lazily searching for something to watch next. I stumbled upon Major Dad, a show that ran from 1989-1993. It was a show that ended when I was the age of my youngest child. I was caught up in nostalgia and the startling realization of how much time has passed since watching this show on syndicated T.V. week to week.
It prompted me to think, how do I redeem the time? How do I engage my day with intentionality, experience what the Father has for me, and encounter His purpose for my life?
Ironic as it may sound, I believe slowing down is a significant piece of living a full life. The article above mentioned that time seems to speed up for adults because our days are more routine and children are experiencing first time and significant moments. Each day is a special and designed day that God has for us to experience. The problem is we often miss Him in that day. Meaning, today seems a lot like yesterday and the other 365 days of the past year. When that happens, time flies.
But if I were to slow down, smell the roses, enjoy the sunrise (or sunset for those who are not early birds) and seek the face of God, that day becomes significant.
How do I do that? Well, I wanted to share a few books that might help you engage this discipline in your life:
The Bible Recap - N.T. by Tara Leigh Cobble
A great way to experience God is to engage his Word. Why? It reminds us of truth, reveals the lies we believe, and empowers us to dismantle those lies to experience God in our day.
Sooley by John Grisham
I like a good novel, and John Grisham is one of my favorite authors. This particular book struck a chord with me and reminded me how a singular decision could impact my entire life. But it also shows how one can be inspired to grab life, live it, experience it, and find purpose even in the moments of pain.
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
John Mark Comer does a fantastic job sharing with us the beauty of slow. He gives us a tremendous biblical foundation of why and some practical tips on how.
Celebration of Discipline by Richard J. Foster & Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life by Donald S. Whitney
A primary purpose in slowing down is to connect with the Father. These two books help us understand certain spiritual practices and engage them to experience more of the Father.
Remember, each day has a design. Within each day, you have a purpose. Each morning we are gifted the opportunity to engage the Holy Spirit to discover that design and purpose. Living out of purpose will yield significance. But the path to significance isn't hurry and production; it is about abiding. Slow down, seek the face of the Father, create margin so He can grab your hand and lead you into the day's design.