Seizing Opportunities

In 1967, experts predicted that by the turn of the century technology would have taken over so much of the work we do that the average American work week would be only 22 hours long, and that we would work only 27 weeks a year. As a result, one of our biggest problems would be in deciding what to do with all our leisure time.

I don't know about you but that prediction is not a reality in my life. 

Most people I know are busy with their families, work and trying to keep all areas of their life balanced.

Here we are at the start of a New Year. I wonder how we will do this year? Will we be as busy? Will we make any better use of our time and opportunities? When this year is over, will we be looking back with joy, or with regret? Or will we be looking forward to the future with anticipation, or with dread?

Ephesians5:15 & 17 says, "Be very careful, then, how you live not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is."

We can gain a few concepts from this scripture:

1. Time is precious - we must be careful not to squander the limited number of days we have, which is called a "lifetime."

2. Seize valuable opportunities

Ephesians 5 tells us that we must make "the most of every opportunity.  Why? "because the days are evil."

Jesus said thatSatan is a robber and a thief.  One of the things he tries to rob from us is our time. Because time is a very precious possession.

Is there something stealing your time?  Sinful behavior?  Worry and anxiety? Past regrets? Too much time wasted on social media and entertainment?  Or maybe your time is not being squandered away with negative practices.  It may be that you are overcommitted at work or you don't spend enough time growing yourself spiritually. 

Start your year off right. Make a commitment to guard against time stealers.   During the month of January evaluate yourself at the end of each day by jotting down how well you did on a scale from 1 to 5. 

Next,  decide if you have overcommitted yourself in the areas of your time and finances.  If you are overcommitted you will not be open to new opportunities.  Be sure you have at least one day a week for a change of focus.  It needs to be a day of rest, relaxation and reflection. Sunday is a perfect day for the "three Rs." 

This year can be a great year of we value our time and seize opportunities.