My heart was moved a few days ago as I viewed a slideshow dedicated to Hollywood stars and musicians who “died before their time.” I was amazed at how long the list was. If you’d like to view it click here.
These people literally ran out of time.
Now be honest with yourself. How many times have you said that you didn’t have time to do this or that?
In most cases what you were really saying was that you didn’t value this event or activity enough to make it a priority in your schedule. We all have the same 24 hours each day.
Granted, it’s good that you don’t use your time for certain things. Life is all about choices. The more choices that you make in alignment with your purpose the better.
But what about those areas of life, where you have competing commitments? You say that you value family, but your schedule proves that work is more important. Or maybe you express that you want to change your financial condition, but hours are spent watching television or playing games on the computer.
Honest examination of your life will probably reveal areas where your stated values don’t line up with your time expenditures. These are the areas where you are sabotaging your own success.
When it all boils down your time represents your life on earth. Every choice is a trade for a piece of your life. Each trade lessens the amount of life left in your account.
You can “spend your life” for time on the couch or with friends…building a house, taking a vacation, strengthening a business or being entertained. Any of these things may be good or bad uses of time. Only you and God are qualified to make that judgment. Each may be needed in the moment or for the season of life that you are in. Each could also be a departure from your purpose, values and goals.
In a perfect world we could plan everything in advance, but often life does not go the way that we plan. God is always working around you. It’s important to remember that life’s little detours actually have hidden treasure within them.
So here’s the secret. Slow yourself down. Be centered, strategic and intentional. Plan the best use of your time that you can. When circumstances take an unexpected turn, try to listen to that little voice inside you. Stay centered. Look for the treasure and make the best of the situation in which you find yourself.
The Bible says that there is a season and a time for every purpose. It’s possible to miss yours because of bad trades. In a very real sense, your life is a business. Your ultimate success or failure is determined by your ability to consistently make wise transactions.
I’d like to challenge you to be more purposeful and strategic. Don’t let life happen to you. Be conscious of the choices that you make. Weigh them carefully in terms of where you ultimately want to end up in life. Determine whether they will assist you on your journey or ultimately end up working against you.
Time is valuable. It represents your life. Use it well! Blessings…R.P.P.
Randall Paul Pipes is a life development specialist helping people
discover and develop God’s unique purpose for their lives through
coaching, seminars, public speaking and resources. Visit him at www.lifepurposetips.com or contact him at randall_paul@lifepurposetips.com.
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Thank you! R.P.P.
