I have been welding up a pipe fence around our house for a little over a year. It is one of those projects that I work on when everything else is done. The problem is everything else is never done.
Every morning, for months, when I would open the door and step out onto the porch to let the dogs into the back yard, I would see my incomplete project. It was a continual irritant because I never had enough time to finish.
One morning, as I stared at the fence, I wished for more time. That got me thinking.
Time is one of our most precious commodities. In fact, we measure things that are most important by time. A birthday, an anniversary, a military deployment, a presidential term, how long we cook food, or the amount of time most of us are supposed to have made it through college are just a few examples of how we view the importance of time.
While I wish I could say I always use my time wisely, that is not the case. I’ve wasted a lot. I’ve squandered what I cannot get back. And once it’s gone, it’s gone for good.
So this morning, I intend to use my time wisely. I will prioritize what matters most. First, is prayer. Second, is taking care of Shannon, as she recovers from surgery. Third, is making sure Mary (our bottle baby calf) is fed and giving Hope (our horse with cancer) her chemotherapy. Fourth, is working at the church. Fifth, is working on the never ending pipe fence.
I am confident I have enough time for the first four priorities. The fifth will have to wait. That’s okay because I have come to terms with the fact that I’ve only got so much time. It’s how I use it that matters.
Today, you have 1,440 minutes. You will never get them back so use them wisely. And while your priorities may be different than mine, let me suggest you start with prayer. If you make it your first priority, how you spend the rest of your time will be guided by the One who loves you more than life itself. It’s the best way to start the day.
Paul said “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” (Ephesians 5:15-17)
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, thank you for allowing me another day. Help me live this day to its fullest. I pray my priorities bring you joy. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
While you don’t know if you have tomorrow, you do have today. Make your 1,440 minutes count.
Also, just for the record. Someday, if I’m still alive, I will finish the pipe fence. Time will tell.
I pray your 1,440 minutes are filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 