Clocks

Take a deep breath . . .

Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world”
—John 11:9

As I read over certain passages in the Gospels, I find myself taking a deep breath. In marked contrast to our frantic lives, I am struck by the calm, steady pace with which Jesus walked among us. It is amazing, especially when you consider that He had just three short years to accomplish all the Father had given Him to do.

And yet, on the eve of His crucifixion, listen to the quiet confidence in His voice as he talks with His Father, “Father . . . I have glorified Thee on earth, having done perfectly the work which by Thine appointment has been mine to do” (John 17:11 Weymouth New Testament). How many of God’s appointments have I shown up late for, or missed altogether?

I’ve noticed that not every demand from the multitudes that came His way was fulfilled, not every expectation the disciples had was met. Not even the requests of his own dear mother were given priority, unless they were sanctioned by His Father. But every detail, large and small, that was on his “to do” list was perfectly done!

Time pressures us, hurries us, runs out on us, and then crushes us! I am amazed at the pace with which we are trying to cope with all the activities we have committed ourselves to, while attempting to live fruitful, godly lives. Understand that these two things are not synonymous. As a matter of fact, they often compete and collide with one another.

Oh, dear friends, don’t you want to be able to lay your head on your pillow at night and know you have done the work God had appointed for you that day? Unfortunately, where I often go wrong is in my failure to consult with my Heavenly Father first before I make my commitments. There will never be enough time to do all the things others would ask me to do, or even all the things that my own desires would have me do. But I can be confident that the 24 hours I have every day will be sufficient to accomplish the good plan God has for me.

Take a moment to reflect on yesterday’s schedule. How did you glorify God and accomplish the work He called you to do? How could you have chosen better and experienced God’s presence and peace?

Now take a look at your schedule for tomorrow. How will you glorify God and accomplish the work He will call you to do?

Here are four simple points to remember:

  1. Remember that you don’t have to meet all the expectations you have for yourself or others have for you.
  2. Remember that God’s Word promises that you do have enough time to accomplish all that God is asking of you. The Bible tells us, “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV).
  3. Consult your Heavenly Father daily and learn through the Word the responsibilities He has given you, and then commit yourself only to those tasks that are in keeping with His priorities.
  4. Ask Him to grant you the will or won’t power to keep that focus throughout the day.

Whether you are a stay-at-home mom, an elderly woman in a retirement home, or a business woman working 50 hours a week, each one us has to choose whose agenda we will follow: our own, others, or God’s. The one you choose will determine whether you will experience frustration, guilt, and worry; or the fulfillment, joy, and peace that only God’s plan for you can bring.

Read and meditate on Matthew 6:19-34 before you make your choices!